Merrilyn Heyrend

MERRILYN J. HEYREND IDAHO FALLS, ID - Merrilyn Joyce Heyrend died November 21, 2003, at her daughter’s home, surrounded by her family – following a courageous battle with cancer. She was 76 years old. A funeral service will be held in Idaho Falls on Monday, December 1, 2003 at 2:00 p.m., at Wood Funeral Home (273 N. Ridge). The family will visit with friends for one hour prior to the services at the funeral home. Burial will be at Fielding Memorial Park. Merrilyn was born March 5, 1927 in Pocatello, Idaho. She was one of two daughters of Dr. J.W. and Leah West. Her sister, June Osmond, lives in Denver, Colorado. Until recently moving to Boise, Merrilyn lived the majority of her life in Idaho Falls. She attended Idaho Falls High School and The University of Utah. She wed F. LaMarr Heyrend in 1946, and they had three children. Merrilyn loved living in Idaho Falls, and especially her time spent with family and friends at a cabin near the old Mack’s Inn. She enjoyed her sojourns to Yellowstone, Hawaii, and trips with her sister. Any lost or stray animal was welcome to join her. Merrilyn always had an open house, with a busy kitchen, as she never knew a stranger and everyone was always welcome. Her kitchen was the hub for many a discussion and plans for her family and friends. Excellent meals were prepared at various times during the day to accompany this on-going activity and dialogue. Merrilyn worked for many years at Lincoln Court Retirement Center, and enjoyed caring for people. She was generous with her home, her time, and her spirit. She shared every thing with everyone, without being asked. Her acceptance of people and her role modeling of tolerance was a fundamental element and principle in her life. She will be remembered as a very gentle and friendly woman who was kind and welcoming to anyone who came her way. Merrilyn loved her family deeply and the survivors are the lucky ones for having been part of her life. Her friends and buddies remained loyal throughout her life. Merrilyn is survived by her family: Cydnee, Kory, Philip and Alexandra, Adam, Natalie, Carly, Ridley, F. LaMarr, and Virginia Heyrend; June and John, and Kirk Osmond; Claudia and Fred Brown; Vicki Al-Hamnoodah; Linda Branson; as well as grand nieces and nephews, and many wonderful friends and associates. She was preceded in death by her son, Michael Heyrend. Her family and friends would like to thank the St. Lukes Hospice and Mountain States Tumor Institute for their guidance, concern, and support. Any contributions to the Mountain States Tumor Institute in Boise, Idaho would be appreciated.