Merry Alyce Eiting

August 4, 1943 - January 8, 2024

Merry Alyce Eiting passed away on January 8, 2024. She was born on August 4, 1943 to Leslie Lowe Ashton and Alyce Hansen Ashton in Heber City, Utah. She spent her childhood in Heber with her brothers Lowe and Homer, both deceased. With a large age gap between Merry and her brothers, she was the princess growing up, even though her nickname was Goog. Merry went to high school at Wasatch Academy in Mount Pleasant, Utah, where she created many lifelong friendships. 

She met and married Howard Harmston (divorced) at Wasatch Academy. They had three children: Lorrie (Scott), Chris (Patti), and Kelly (Michael). They made their home in Bountiful, Utah where Merry was a homemaker in her early years and then spent several years working at Standard Optical. 

Merry found her true love Norman Eiting (deceased). Together, they spent many years traveling, exploring and enjoying their grandchildren, Eric (Erin), Rachel (Dustin), Melissa (Michael), Christian (Andi), Harrison, Paul, Luke, and Grace. They also had 3 appointed grandchildren, Mikala (Dakota), Coleman and Bridger. 

Mom had a huge heart and often helped others in need. She was exceptional at adopting and accepting people and making everyone feel loved. Mom enjoyed spending time with the family, camping in the mountains and exploring in the Jeep. Mom enjoyed playing bridge weekly where she had many special friends, but she was ready for any card game–or dominos! She was always ready for fun. Mom always taught us to play honestly but to play to win! Mom was an avid reader and, like her mom, could devour a large book in a short period of time. She always said you could explore the world through reading. Mom was also a member of the Order of Eastern Star for over 50 years. 

A message from Mom that we found safely nestled in her belongings reads:

If there ever comes a time when we can’t be together, hold me in your heart, I’ll stay there forever.

–Winnie The Pooh. 

A celebration of Merry’s life will be on Saturday, February 24 from 5-7 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Guests are encouraged to use parking and entrance located on the north side of the building. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Shriners Hospital in Salt Lake City, Utah.

In Loving Memory

I rarely got to see my Wasatch friend, Merry, but always felt so close to her. She was a delight in every way.

Carolyn B. Lewis

Seattle, WA

Mary you have the same smile.. I met you thru my sister Roberta. The two of you were roommates at Wasatch. I was probably 14 or something you were really nice to me and made me feel welcomed. I think it was that orientation weekend as the following year I was a Freshman and my turn to make lasting memories.I can remember going Bowling with you Roberta and Howard. I think it was in SL. My first time. Do not  remember scores, or who won, just remember the fun and was glad I had been included with you guys. I am glad I can share my memories of you . Many Blessings to you on your new adventure..  All my Best to your family    Anne Spalding

Frances Anne Spalding

Surrey BC Canada, nan

Dear Merry, family and friends, I think of our times with so much fondness. We were kids together. bama mine.. until we meet again! Minnie

Minisa Crumbo Halsey

Mounds, OK

Sorry to hear of Merry's passing, what a great lady she was, she will be missed.  Love to all.

Sherri and Joe Eiting

Aguila, AZ

I am so sorry to hear of Merry's passing.  I will always remember all the times we had at Wasatch!  You were a special person and will be remembered.  Prayers and hugs to your family. Always,   Lola

Lola J Kakes

Tucson, AZ

Lorrie, Chris, Kelly and Family, What a beautiful picture of Merry and what a beautiful tribute to your mom. I have so many wonderful memories of Merry.  She was a second mom to me as a child. I truly loved her. Peace and prayers to all of you. Suzie

Suzie Philabaum Randall

Eden Prairie, MN

To Merry's Family, what an honor to be able to say that I knew her.  She always was welcoming and had the best laugh.  May your many memories carry you through until you can be together again.  ❤️

Holly Hill

Salt Lake, UT

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