John Leslie Merrifield

John Leslie Merrifield Jr. died unexpectedly in Riverside, California on August 8, 2016 at the age of 64. John is survived by his wife Sandi, his son and daughter-in-law, Jake and Sarah; his grandchildren, Megan, Molly and Malcom; his sisters, Laurie, Janna and Beth; and his Aunt Lois and her extended family. John was born on October 2, 1951 in San Diego, California to John Sr and Joanna Merrifield. He grew up in Elsinore, California and graduated from Elsinore High School in 1969. He met Sandi in Elsinore and the pair eventually married on October 12, 1972. He lived in and around Riverside County for the rest of his life, eventually settling in La Sierra. He worked as a manager for Circle K, Goodyear Tire and other retail stores in his 20s and 30s. In his 40s he worked as a bug-man for Orkin Pest Control, and in his 50s he worked for Par Electrical Contractors. John retired in his late 50s and supported his wife in her career. John was an accomplished pianist and keyboard player. He played keyboard in the band Decembers Children during high school, and he enjoyed getting together to play with his former band-mates throughout the rest of his life. He also enjoyed cycling at the beach with Sandi. They would often spend multiple weekends in a row pedaling up and down the California coastline. In his later years, he enjoyed watching his grandchildren participate in various activities. Beyond bands and bikes, John thoroughly enjoyed talk radio, especially the Rush Limbaugh Show for which he was a fervent ditto-head. A funeral is scheduled for 11 am on August 13, 2016 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (11150 Collett Ave., Riverside, CA 92505) with a reception to follow. Rocky Snider, his brother-in-law, will officiate the ceremony, and all are welcome to attend. Flowers and condolences may be sent to Sandi at 11308 Sinclair Place Porter Ranch, CA 91326. The family would like to thank the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for accommodating the service. Memorial Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints co Saturday 8/13, 11:00 am