Arthur Eugene Merrick

Arthur "Mick" Merrick, 86, of Robinson, IL, died on October 20, 2019, in the comfort of his home. He was born December 27, 1932, in Westfield, IL, the son of James Merrick & Bessie (Williams) Merrick, both of whom preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Wilbur "Punk" Merrick, Herman H. Merrick, Clifford "Babe" Merrick; and by his sister, Frances "Pan" Reynolds; as well as one great-granddaughter, Megan. He married Shirley Martin on November 13, 1954, and she survives. He is also survived by his children, Cathy McKinney, Steve & Ellen Merrick, Ron & Brenda Merrick, and Beverly Merrick; by 6 grandchildren, Jeremy, Steven, David, Brad, Amber, Jesse; and by 21 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-granddaughter; as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members. Art grew up in the Westfield area, where he graduated from high school. He would go on to proudly serve his country as a paratrooper in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Out of the service, he went to work for both Woolworth's and Ben Franklin five-and-dime stores. In 1970, he got on with the Marathon refinery in Robinson, where he worked for many years before retiring as an operator in 1994. Away from work, he always stayed busy. If he wasn't fishing, he was fixing things and was known to find discarded items and bring them back into working condition. He also spent countless hours in his 5,000 sq-foot garden, and often hand-delivered the fruits of his labor. Art was also a member of the Robinson American Legion Post #69, the Robinson Masonic Lodge #250, the Valley of Danville Scottish Rite, and was also a beloved Krazy Klown through the Ainad Shrine. He will forever be remembered as a caring, yet stubborn soul who lived life his way. He didn't always show it, but he loved his family, and they could never forget his ornery laugh. This last April, Art accepted Christ into his heart. His family has the blessed assurance that today, he has been freed from the chains of this world and is experiencing wholeness in the presence of his Savior. Private family services will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to "Shriners Hospitals for Children", with envelopes available at the funeral home.