Merlin Tanner

Grouse Creek—Merlin B. Tanner 82, passed away peacefully June 4,2009 in his home where he was born in Grouse Creek with his loving wife by his side. Merlin was born October 28, 1926, in Grouse Creek, to Delbert E. and Mary Ella Tanner. He was the first of six children. Merlin was raised and educated in Grouse Creek. His early years were filled with days helping his father ride the range herding cattle and putting up hay. He graduated from Ogden High School. After graduation, Merlin was drafted in the United States Army. Merlin returned to Grouse Creek after an honorable discharge from WWII and continued ranching throughout his life. Merlin married Kenna Kunzler on October 25, 1950 in the Logan Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was an active church member and served in many callings, including serving as Bishop of the Grouse Creek Ward. Along with his ranching business, Merlin managed the Grouse Creek Co-Op General Store and also served as Box Elder County Deputy Sheriff. Merlin served on numerous agriculture boards and committees. Merlin is survived by his wife Kenna and five children: Blaine (Julie) Tanner, Grouse Creek; Laraine (Ron) Hunt, Layton; Jay (Diane) Tanner, Grouse Creek; Brent (Conny) Tanner, South Weber; Terri (Mike) Schutz, Twin Falls, Idaho, fifteen grandchildren, seven great grandchildren and siblings Gordon Tanner, Bill (Mary Kay) Tanner, Carole (John) Olsen, and Douglas (Kathleen) Tanner. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Keith and granddaughter Jamie. Funeral Services will be held Tuesday June 9, 2009 at 12:00 noon at the Grouse Creek LDS Chapel. Friends and family may call Monday June 8, 2009 from 6-8 pm at Rudd Funeral Home 1234 S Main Garland UT 84312 or Tuesday June 9, 2009 10:30 – 11:40 am at the Grouse Creek Church. Internment will be in the Grouse Creek Cemetery. The family suggest in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to the LDS missionary fund or a charity of your choice.