1952 ~ 2026
Douglas C. Merrill Jr., age 74, passed away peacefully on March 12, 2026.
He was born on February 5, 1952, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to his father, Douglas Merrill Sr., and his mother, Fay Knaras. He spent his life in Utah and most recently resided in West Valley City, Utah.
On September 29, 1979, he married Pauline Merrill. Through this marriage he also became a devoted stepfather.
Doug proudly served in the United States military and was honorably discharged as a veteran. He was also a member of the Eagles.
Doug was an avid golfer and enjoyed playing darts at the Eagles. He began his career working as a laborer and, through dedication and hard work, eventually became a Superintendent at HHI Construction, where he retired.
Doug will especially be remembered for his wonderful sense of humor. He loved making people laugh, especially children, who always enjoyed being around him.
He is survived by his wife, Pauline Merrill; his best friend, John Perry; sister-in-law, Connie Helm (Scott); and brothers-in-law, Jay Yates (Lisa), Steven Yates (Marci), and Kevin Yates (Julie).
He was preceded in death by his step-son, Kelly Beeny; his father, Douglas Merrill Sr.; his mother, Fay Knaras; his stepfather, Nick Knaras; his father- and mother-in-law, Merrill and Jean Yates; and his grandparents, Victor and Vera Owens.
Doug will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, and he will always be remembered for his humor, his hard work, and the happiness he brought to others.
Arrangements are under the care of Larkin Sunset Gardens, Sandy, Utah. Services are by invite only.
Doug was a smart guy and one of the most detail-oriented people I’ve known. When he worked for me, I knew things were going to be handled carefully and done right. He paid attention to the stuff a lot of people overlook, and that was just how he was.
He also took good care of his things. Really good care of them. Probably better care than most people take of their own stuff, and maybe even themselves. That was Doug. He liked things a certain way, and he stuck to it.
We spent a lot of time together over the years fishing, hunting, and traveling with Pauline. Those are the times I’ll remember most. Doug always had jokes, always had something to say, and he could keep things interesting. He had a sense of humor that kept you on your toes, and he usually had a way of making a trip or a day outdoors more entertaining.
Doug wasn’t just my employee, and he wasn’t just my brother-in-law. He was my friend. That’s how I’ll remember him. Not as a perfect man, because none of us are, but as someone I spent a lot of good time with and someone who was a real part of my life.
I’m grateful for the memories, the trips, the laughs, and all the time we got to spend together. He’ll be missed.
Tribute to Uncle Doug
It was always the holiday season that brought my family together. My family lived in St. George, Utah. So we would prepare for the long drive from St. George to Midvale, Utah. The 55-65 mph speed limit back then seemed to stretch the journey out forever, especially for a little girl filled with excitement to see her "Salt Lake family" and celebrate the holidays.
I remember the exact turn that would lead us to my grandparents’ house. I would look for the Subaru, knowing that Aunt Pauline and Uncle Doug would be there. And when I saw it, my heart would race with excitement. But then, the shyness would kick in. Until I saw Uncle Doug.
He always looked and smelled so nice. My little girl mind will always remember him in his fancy leather jacket, nicely ironed blue jeans, and that same familiar mustache. In his hand, a cold Coors Lite, just like my dad’s. I would hide behind my parents' legs, hoping he'd tease me into giving him a hug. I always wanted to hug him, but I loved playing hard to get. Eventually, I’d warm up, and then he’d play with all of us kids, always the funniest and most fun-loving uncle.
As the years passed, things changed, but Uncle Doug's ability to make everything special never did. Fast forward to when I was in my 30s, and Doug and Pauline invited us to their second home in Mesquite to watch an Elvis impersonator show. When we arrived and saw Elvis, we couldn’t help but laugh—he was shorter and much rounder than the King, but it didn’t matter. Doug and I danced our hearts out, and Pauline and I went up to the stage while “Elvis” sang “Let me be your teddy bear” and he handed us both the cheapest, ugliest, crossed eyed teddy bears. It was a BLAST and It was the kind of night I’ll never forget, full of laughter, joy, and that unique Doug spirit.
And of course, there were all the epic golf trips he took with the guys. I can still hear the stories and see the laughter they all shared.
Uncle Doug, you were one of a kind. Your authenticity, humor, and love made such an impact on all of us. I am so blessed to have known you, and I will carry you with me in every joyful memory. I love you very much, and I will never forget you.
Forever, in my heart and all my love,
Ashlee
My thoughts and prayers are with you Aunt Pauline. I have such good memories of Uncle Doug. Although I wasn't always around he was the one person that always came up to me at family gatherings asking questions to make sure that I knew how grateful the family was that I was there and he made sure that I knew how much it meant to Grandma and Grandpa to have me there. He always made such an effort to make me feel apart of the extended family. I am so grateful to have known him. He was a great man.
We have enjoyed Doug & his love for golfing, camping & giving “ wet willies” to our kids. So grateful for the wonderful memories.
Doug was awesome and will be missed.
I just joined his former place of work. On the notification of his passing I hear several of the staff expressed deep sorrow of the news of his passing. I can feel strongly how much he was cherished here. My Condolence to his family and close friends.
I had the pleasure of knowing Doug for the past 10 years. He certainly made an impression upon me. I will miss our conversations. My thoughts are with his family and friends.
Doug was a "class-act". When he worked for HHI, I knew he would make sure the jobs were done safely and on time. He was a smart worker and set the example for the rest of the crew.
He helped build the great reputation HHI has today!
Pauline, thanks for sharing him with us!