LouAnn Merrell
LouAnn Timothy Merrell
November 12, 1954
On April 15, 2017 LouAnn Merrell was on backpacking trip in the Grand Canyon with family members. During a stream crossing which she had done at least a dozen times over the years her and a grandson lost their footing and were swept down stream and presumed drowned.
LouAnn Timothy Merrell, age 62, of Vernal, was born in Roosevelt, Utah on November 12, 1954 to LaWana and Arthur J. Timothy. LouAnn was raised in Altamont on a dairy farm where she learned the value of hard work by milking cows and other farm chores. She attended Altamont Elementary and High School where she was Duchesne County Beef Princess.
LouAnn married Randy Merrell on August 13, 1974 in the Manti LDS Temple. They had a storybook love affair. She supported Randy’s dream of being a boot maker and a pedorthist. Together they have traveled the world. One of there favorite destinations was the Grand Canyon were they took many backpacking trips together.
They designed and built their unique home where they raised four adventurous boys. Many fun memories were made in this home, from the 17 foot annual Christmas tree to the indoor trampoline. LouAnn’s greatest joy and accomplishment was her family that she loves dearly.
LouAnn was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. She held many callings including teaching Relief Society for 20 years and being a temple worker for three years. She had a strong testimony and love for the gospel.
LouAnn was one of the first Utahans to certify as an EMT. She spent 15 years as an active EMS responder. She enjoyed raising a garden and tending to her Yaks.
LouAnn is preceded in death by her son Luke Merrell, parents and twin brothers Paul and Roger Timothy.
She is survived by her husband of 42 years Randy Merrell; Sons: Jeremy (Charissa), Karstan (Julie Standefer-Merrell) and Ivan (Hollie); Grandchildren: Jessy Merrell, Christy Merrell, Cassy Merrell, Jacey Merrell, Alli Standefer, Jackson Standefer (took this journey with LouAnn), Luken Merrell and Dylan Merrell.
We wish to thank the Grand Canyon National Park for their continuous search for LouAnn and Jackson. As well as the many family and friends whom have shown support to our family during this difficult time. We have felt your love and prayers.
In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the White House Academy Scholarship Foundation or to the Uintah County Search and Rescue by dropping off donations at the funeral home. Unfortunately Grand Canyon national Park cannot accept private donations.
Memorial services will be held Sunday, April 23, 2017 at 6PM at the Maeser Stake Center (2745 West 1000 North). A visitation and celebration of life will follow immediately after the memorial service at the church. Services are under the direction of the Phillips Ashley Valley Funeral Home.
