Dr. Michael J. Merry

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Dr. Michael J. Merry, age 67 of Freeport, IL, passed away on Wednesday, December 31, 2025 at FHN Memorial Hospital surrounded by his family after a courageous battle with Alzheimer's disease. He was born September 27, 1958 in Clinton, IA; the son of the late John and Anna Marie (Heistad) Merry. Michael married his high school sweetheart, Pamela Printz on December 18, 1982.

He graduated from Polo High School and went on to Loyola University in Chicago. He graduated from the University of Illinois College of Medicine and completed his residency at St. Francis Hospital in Peoria. Michael made a lifelong career in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics at FHN Memorial Hospital. He was active in serving the community in which he lived. He had a passion for medicine and for people.

Michael enjoyed working outdoors, especially mowing his lawn. He collected fountain pens and had a love for coffee and animals. He was also an avid Green Bay Packer fan. Most of all he loved his family. He loved coaching his kids soccer teams and being Poppy to his grandkids. He was kind, compassionate and loved life. He had an unforgettable smirk and a heart of gold.

He is survived by his wife, Pam; children, Ashley (Jim) Abate, Heather (Travis) Lutz, Jess (Cara) Merry, and Justin (Lynsie) Merry; grandchildren: Sophia, Deacon & Jennings Abate; Lincoln & Jaxon Lutz; Drake & Blaire Merry; and Drew & Madisen Merry; sisters, Marcia (Sam) Gieck and Carol Merry; mother-in-law, Marcia Printz; sisters-in-law, Tammy (Jeff) Kelly and Kim Printz; and several nieces & nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; grandsons, Nathaniel, Christopher, and Matthew Lutz; sisters, Joanne Roof and Catherine Merry; niece, Mary Catherine Fuller; and father-in-law, Lyle Printz.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 7, 2026 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Walker Mortuary in Freeport. The Funeral Mass will be Thursday, January 8, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Thomas of Aquanis Catholic Church in Freeport with a visitation beginning at 9:30 a.m. Interment will take place at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in Freeport. A memorial fund has been established in his name. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.walkermortuary.com.