Michael J. Merrill
Retired Massachusetts State Trooper
TEWKSBURY: Michael J. Merrill, age 69, a resident of Tewksbury for more than 35 years, formally of Billerica and Reading, passed away at home on Monday, March 13, 2023.
He was the beloved husband of Marlene C. (Hartley) Merrill, with whom he celebrated their 47th wedding anniversary on January 23, 2023.
Born in Winchester on June 22, 1953, he was the son of the late Melvin Merrill and the late Mary (Beaudoin) Merrill.
Michael was raised in Reading and graduated from Reading High School.
In 1973, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served during the Vietnam War Era with the 170th Military Police Company PSFC FORSCOM. He was awarded several decorations for his active-duty service including the National Defense Service Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, the Sharpshooter Rife Badge, the Sharpshooter Pistol Badge and the First-Class Grenade Badge.
Michael’s 25-year career in law enforcement started with the M.D.C Police Department, where he worked until becoming a Trooper with the Massachusetts State Police.
He was a member of the Fr. Francis Coppens Council # 4336 Knights of Columbus.
Mike was an animal lover, he enjoyed the companionship of his cat’s “Nana” and “Magoo”, his dogs, “Benny” and the late “Mimi” and raising his brood of chickens.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, Tewksbury Firefighter, Christina Merrill-Morgado and her husband David and Tewksbury Firefighter, Michael B. Merrill: two grandchildren, Matthew Merrill and Riley Morgado: his brother, Joe Merrill: his sister, Maryjane Nangle and her husband Mark. He leaves many extended family members and friends.
Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of his Life to be held Sunday, April 2nd, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. at T.J. Callahan’s Restaurant, 1475 Main Street, Tewksbury, MA.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to M.S.P.C.A.-Nevins Farm, 400 Broadway, Methuen, MA 01844,