Merlin John Thompson

Our beloved Merlin passed away on September 1, 2015; a short two days after his 82nd birthday following a long battle with cancer. He was born August 30, 1933 in St. Anthony, Idaho to Richard F. Thompson and Nettie D. Spidel. He was the youngest of 10 children. On October 31, 1952, he married his dear wife LaWana and they were later sealed in the Salt Lake Temple on April 13, 1972. Merlin worked at Cudahy Meat Packing Plant, Valley Music Hall, Cream o'Weber Dairy, Jordan Meat Packing Plant and retired from First Security Bank. He was a man of all traits and loved camping, boating, fishing and being in the Salt Lake City Palomino Posse for many years. Merlin is survived by his loving wife LaWana Howell Thompson of 62 years; children Kristine (Wayne) Hopkinson, Barbra (James) Debenham, Jillene Thompson, Dixie Lee and Stacey (Randy) Maestas; 15 grandchildren (including twins); 24 great-grandchildren; and 1 great-great-grandchild. He is also survived by his sister Wanda Hall of Rexburg, Idaho. Funeral services will be held Saturday, September 5, 2015, 11:00 a.m., at the LDS Chapel, 7171 South 2700 West, West Jordan, Utah. Viewings will be held at the church, Friday, September 4th, from 6-8:00 p.m., and prior to the services, 10-10:45 a.m. Interment, Redwood Memorial Estates. In lieu of flowers, the family wishes donations be made to the Merlin J. Thompson Donation account at any Wells Fargo Bank. Place of Birth:St. Anthony, IdahoPlace of Death:West Jordan, Utah