Merrill Eugene Tregoning

Merrill Eugene Tregoning
April 13, 1933 – September 30, 2021

Merrill Eugene Tregoning passed away at Poudre Valley Hospital on September 30th, 2021. Merrill was born in Johnstown, Colorado on April 13, 1933. He graduated from Johnstown High School in 1951. Merrill then enlisted in the United States Navy. While in the Navy, he was honored to be selected to help re-enact the raising of the flag for the 10th anniversary of the invasion of Okinawa. After his time in the Navy, Merrill went to college in Greeley, Colorado and graduated with a B.S. degree in Social Studies Education from the University of Northern Colorado. Merrill then taught in Byers, Colorado for three years. Merrill married his soul mate Shirley Schmidt on June 2, 1963 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Windsor, Colorado. He received his M.S. degree in School Administration from the University of Northern Colorado. Merrill then became superintendent of schools in Peetz, Colorado for 7 years, Merino, Colorado for 3 years, and the Arickaree School District for 9 years. Merrill then embarked on a new career at HSI Health Plans until his retirement in 1998. Merrill was chosen to participate in the Honor Flight program. His trip was special because he went with two of his brothers, Sonny and Jimmie. He enjoyed attending his son Kyle’s sporting events over the years whether his son was playing or coaching. Merrill also enjoyed the occasional trips to Blackhawk with his wife Shirley, son Kyle, friends, and family. He enjoyed watching football, musicals, and old westerns. Merrill is survived by his wife of 58 years, Shirley, and his son Kyle (Shelley), grandson Connor, granddaughter Anna, sister-in-law Margaret (Jim) Matthews numerous nieces and nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews. Merrill was preceded in death by his parents William (Bill) and Stella (Hawkins), brother Vern and wife Vera, sister Maxine and husband Jerry Fowler, brother Sonny (Irvin) and his wife Barbara, brother Jimmie and his wife Allene, sister-in-law Carol Canfield and her husband Don, nephew Billy, and great-nephews Cody and Matthew.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Bethel Lutheran Church on Saturday, October 23rd beginning at 11:00am. A lunch reception will follow the service. Graveside services will be held at a later date. Donations may be made to the Merrill E. Tregoning Memorial Fund which will be used to set up a scholarship for prospective educators.