Merik Michael Morgan

Merik Michael Morgans spirit left this earth for better terrain, Saturday, January 24th 2015 while in Yellowstone National Park. Merik was 52 and lived in the Bozeman area since his first visit to Yellowstone in 1984. A Celebration of Meriks LIFE will begin at 6:00 P.M., Friday January 30, at the Baxter Hotel Ballroom in Bozeman. A remembrance tribute will start at 8:00 P.M. Meriks family asks if you have a memento or a photo that encompasses who Merik was to you, please bring that item to the remembrance to share with the others who are grieving the loss of this great man. Merik was born in Austin, Texas on October 24, 1962. He was the son of Jerry and Norma Morgan of Los Alamos, New Mexico. Merik wed Catherine McCoy on May 5, 1990 with whom he shared 10 years of marriage. Merik began ski patrolling when he was 16 as a junior volunteer at Pajarito Mountain. He later attended the University of New Mexico before heading to YNP. He was a professional ski patrol for Sierra Ski Ranch, Bridger Bowl, Crystal Mountain, Discovery Basin and Moonlight Basin in a career that spanned 35 years. His skiing style was smooth, effortless and fluid, like poetry in motion. A perfect balance of friction. Merik aka "M3" had a zest for life, a thirst for knowledge and a huge fun button. He loved telling stories in an excited, animated style that made everyone smile. M3 found joy and solace in all that the great outdoors had to offer; mountain biking, hiking, canoeing, skiing and gardening. His greatest joy was sharing what he had and what he knew with others. He took his concern for and commitment to others very seriously and personally. Merik had assisted, saved and helped to keep safe literally thousands of strangers and friends alike. He took great pride in being known as the 'Grand Ol Man of the Mountains' while working as a guide for the Wild-land Trekking Co. He will be so dearly missed! Merik is survived by: Parents, Norma F. and Jerry A. Morgan Sister, Mariam Morgan-Smith and Dennis Smith Brother, Marsh Morgan Nieces, Lauren Oberholser and Jenica Morgan-Smith As well as hundreds of people whose souls he touched and who loved him dearly. Shine on you crazy diamond! Arrangements are under the care of Franzen-Davis Funeral Home and Crematory.