Obituary: Womach, Merrill
A lifetime Spokane area resident.
Merrill graduated from North Central High School in Spokane in 1944 and later graduated from Northwest Bible College in Seattle, WA in 1948.
On Sunday, the 28th of December Spokane lost a beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather, Friend and Well-Known Gospel Singer, and Funeral Service Icon.
Merrill is as well known for his amazing vocal artistry and four-octave tenor voice as he is for his creative entrepreneurship that built a national music service for funeral homes designed to minister to families during their time of loss.
Years ago, while his fledgling business was growing, a private plane he was flying crashed in the woods upon take off.
Merrill not only beat the odds of surviving the fiery plane crash, he also continued to sing and inspire others with his strong faith in God.
Whether sharing his musical gifts with an audience, or leading his staff into national notoriety, Merrill has always inspired those whose path he crosses.
Merrill is survived by his former wife and best friend, Virginia Womach of Woodstock, GA; son, Dan Womach of Spokane; daughter, Marlene Cook of Canton, GA; daughter, Judie Sowards of Spokane; sister, Lois Pearson of Spokane; sister, Beverly Carpenter of Deer Park, WA; five grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.
A Celebration of Merrill’s life will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. at Fourth Memorial Church , 2000 N. Standard St., Spokane, WA.
RIPLINGER FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY, SPOKANE, WA entrusted with arrangements.
Online guest book available at www.riplingerfuneralhome.com