Johnny was born in Goodland, Kansas on July 27 ^th , 1947. His parents were Robert Verl Merrell of North Platte, Nebraska (who was stationed at Fort Lewis). And Ruth Miriam (Herrick) Merrell of Tacoma, Washington. Both deceased.

He spent a portion of his young life in Kansas and Nebraska but primarily grew up in Tacoma, Washington when his parents divorced.

However, he and his sister Judy have fond memories of spending many summers living with their father in North Platte. And also of fishing on Lake Malony. He wishes for his ashes to be scattered there.

He attended Central, Bryant, and Lowell Elementary Schools. As well as Jason Lee Junior High, where he was an avid trumpet player and basketball player. John went on to attend Stadium High School, where he was a star basketball player. He graduated from Stadium in 1965. After graduation, John received a scholarship to play basketball at Tacoma Community College. But eventually, John transferred to Central Washington University. Where he ended his basketball career and chose to concentrate on his studies in Philosophy. He graduated from Central with that degree in 1969.

After college, he spent a small part of his adult life taking classes at Montana State University, in Bozeman Montana. Then working at a lumber mill in Superior, Montana before moving back to Tacoma.

He taught briefly at Tacoma Community College in the Philosophy department. But found his passion and ended up working at the County Clerk's Office for 33+ years. Retiring in June of 2014.

His marriage to Wendy Jones sadly ended in divorce. However, they remained good friends and even traveled around Nevada together for many years after she moved there.

John never had any children of his own. But cherished his four nephews, his niece, and their families. Zach Stageberg (Janene) and their two daughters, Leighton and Emmery. Joey Stageberg (Kari) and their son Lincoln, and baby number two on the way. Marcus Schmidli (Jen) and children Jordan, Catriona, and Nova. Preston Schmidli (Lacey) and her son Gentry. Farrah Dotson (Ben) and their children Jacob (Grace), Samuel, Joshua, Felix, and Aster (Kylie).

He leaves behind his two sisters, Rebecca Schmidli (Doug) and Judy Stageberg (Dennis), ex-wife Wendy Merrell of Henderson, NV, and many friends and co-workers from his time at the County Clerk's Office. Along with his dear friends David Minnitti, Darrow Schiesl, and Jim Leeder. John also often met with two ladies he was very fond of for meals. Hallie and Lu, you know who you are. He truly enjoyed your friendship. Thank you for bringing so much joy into his life.