Merrill Milson, 62, Oconto, passed away swiftly and peacefully on Thursday, April 4, 2024, after a short illness.

He was born in Chicago on March 12, 1962, to Dorothy Milson. He grew up in De Pere, where he established many lifelong friendships. He attended Dickenson Grade School and East De Pere High School, where he graduated in 1980.

Merrill met his wife Diane Meyer in 1999, and later married on July 7, 2007. Merrill and Diane had an amazing life together, full of love, laughter, and good times.

He obtained his bachelor's degree in marketing after attending UW Madison and UWGB. He started working in the Insurance industry when he joined Jack Schroeder & Associates in 1992 as a marketing representative ultimately leading to being JSA's Chief Marketing Officer. He later transitioned to Informed Choice Insurance Agency, and most recently was very dedicated to developing his own agency Milson Insurance. Merrill was very proud of the personal service that he was able to provide and considered each client a true friend.

Merrill had an amazing ability to make and keep friends. He was so genuine and completely unable to tell a lie. He had care and concern for everyone and would do anything for anyone in need. Whenever he walked into a room, everyone would exclaim "Merrill" with a big smile. Diane was affectionately known as "Merrill's wife" by many.

Merrill loved learning and was self-taught in many talents. He loved nature and poured his heart and soul into his beautiful, wooded property and home in Oconto since 2006. He very much enjoyed watching the wildlife surrounding his home, and so many other activities that enriched his life.

Merrill and Diane loved to take camping and kayaking trips in the Northwoods of WI. and visit the U.P. of Michigan. Over the past few years, he joined the Oconto Sportsmen Club and served as club secretary until his death. He was so proud and thankful for every friendship he had at the club.

He is survived by his best friend and wife Diane Milson, and his dear sweet mother Dorothy Milson (Philip Maufort). His brothers; Jim (Ann) Milson, Mike Milson, and his sister Debbie Helton. Merrill was loved by his mother-in-law Patricia Meyer as well as brothers and sisters in-law. He is further survived by many other family members including his special uncle and aunt Don and Kay Olson and their children, his niece Jennifer Griffin and her son Elijah, and nephews Blake and Eric. He is further survived by many cousins, grand nieces and nephews, and two Standard Poodles Marcie & Maddie that will miss him dearly.

Merrill was greeted in Heaven by his sister Sharon "Sherry" Johnson, niece Kelly Johnson, Grandma and Grandpa Olson, Aunt Gloria, Aunt Evelyn, and many other relatives, friends, and beloved animals.

Friends may call at Ryan Funeral Home 305 N. Tenth Street, De Pere from 3:00PM Friday, April 12th, until the time of service at 6:00PM.

Special thanks to St. Mary's ED and St. Vincent's staff that were amazing and worked tirelessly to try to make him better. Your kindness and compassion will never be forgotten.

"You were a legend, Merrill. Life will never be the same without you. You made us all better with your presence. See you on the other side."

Shalom