William Richard “Bill” Merrihew, age 61, of Flora, Illinois passed away on Tuesday, April 29, 2014 at Loyola University Hospital in Maywood, Illinois.
Bill was born October 19, 1952 in Flora to Robert “Don” and Marjorie (Akes) Merrihew. He worked in marketing and sales and was a member of Sons of American Legion, VFW, and Moose Lodge. Bill was a “people person” and enjoyed socializing. He loved to laugh and make others laugh by telling jokes and stories. For many years Bill lived in the St. Louis area and was a lifelong Cardinal fan. When he moved back to Flora he drove a bus for C.E.F.S. and thoroughly enjoyed the people he came in contact with. Bill loved his family and was a good friend to many throughout his life.
He is survived by 2 daughters: Emily (husband Josh) Summers of Colorado Springs, Colorado, and Emily Goyea of Washington, Missouri; 2 sons: Will Merrihew of St. Charles, Missouri and Matthew Goyea of Spartanburg, South Carolina; 3 brothers: James (wife Phyllis) Phillips of Salem, Gary (wife Brenda) Phillips of Louisville, and Dave Merrihew of Flora; 2 grandchildren: Alexis and Zachary Summers; along with many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, a son (Ryan), and a sister (Sue Eskew).
Visitation for Bill Merrihew will be held from 6-7:30 p.m. followed by a sharing of life memories on Friday, May 2, 2014 at Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora. Memorials may be made to the family.