Michael G. Merriam

Merriam, Michael G. “Mike.” Age 79 of Scandia passed away on Dec. 1. He was the oldest of eleven children of George and Frances Couillard (Fran) Merriam of Crystal. Mike is survived by his wife Patty, sister Lora (Greg) Blevins, eight brothers: Gene (Sara Meyer), Tim, Steve, Joel, Bill (Lori), John (Cindy), Pat (Julie) and Chuck (Jill) Merriam and sister-in-law Maureen Merriam. In addition he is survived by 15 nieces and nephews, and 19 grand nieces and nephews. He is also survived by many Merriam and Couillard cousins. In addition to his parents, Mike was preceded in death by his first wife, Margit Larsen Merriam, sister Peg Merriam, sister-in-law Patty Merriam and cousin Joe Couillard. In his early 20’s Mike began the pursuit of his working career in the rapidly developing field of computers. Before long, Mike, accompanied by his new bride, Margit, left Minnesota for Chicago where he further developed his mainframe computer skills while employed by the American Bar Association. After more than a decade with the ABA, Mike and Margit left Chicago for Southern California where Mike had more opportunities in the computer field. Mike ended his professional career when he retired from 20th Century Fox, concluding a quarter-century employment with the company.  Mike and Margit lived in Santa Ana, California until Margit’s untimely passing. They had been married four decades. After living elsewhere for almost his whole adult life, Mike moved back to Minnesota, where he had been raised. With his new wife, they made a home in rural Scandia, but remained ardent Angels fans. Before leaving Minnesota, Mike had served with the Minnesota National Guard.
Memorial arrangements pending.