Dr. Cirven Don Merrill

Our beloved father, grandfather, brother and uncle, Cirven (Bruce) Don Merrill made the transition to becoming an ancestor on October 15, 2022. He was born on May 10, 1959 in Saginaw, Michigan to Cager, Sr. and Elizabeth (Bunton) Merrill. Cirven was an entrepreneur who took interest in a variety of fields. His passion for helping others overcome substance abuse led him to work at The Saginaw Odyssey House. There he was able to share his gifts. Cirven was big on education and obtained several college degrees; receiving his Doctorate was one of his highest accomplishments. Cirven was a Civil Rights/Community Activist who used his platform as the voice of the people. He was on the forefront of the “Stop the Violence” rallies, Narcotics Anonymous meetings and other initiatives throughout Saginaw, MI. Cirven led his life by example and recently celebrated 25 years of being clean and sober. He studied various religions but ultimately practiced African Spirituality. Cirven was known as Baba “Teacher” at the Temple where he shared his beliefs with other likeminded individuals. He was also an avid participant at The Saginaw African American Cultural Center. As a young man, he began to study African History and continued to do so until his transition. Cirven would share his knowledge with all who would listen. Cirven leaves to cherish his memory five daughters, Sparkle Tillman of Lancaster, TX, Elizabeth Reddick of Washington, DC, Andrea (Marcin) Gora of Poland, Janell McCain, Marion, IN and Madedah Merrill, all of Saginaw, MI; nine grandchildren, Ja’Vione and Jaylin Tillman, Lily-Kai Thornton, Jaidyn Reddick, Riley Tyson, Garrick Reddick, Azalea Gora, Jaison Reddick and Rigel Gora; one sister, Sandra Jo Merrill of Saginaw, MI; two brothers, Michael (Marcia) Merrill of Saginaw, MI and Rodney (Greta) Merrill of Nashville, TN; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Dr. Merrill was preceded in death by his parents, Cager, Sr. and Elizabeth (Bunton) Merrill; grandparents, Doyle and Bertha Bunton, Ike and Ada Merrill; brothers, Cager, Jr., Bobby Collins and Barney Merrill. Memorial service will take place at 1:00 PM, Saturday, October 29, 2022 at Evans & Browne's Funeral Home, 441 North Jefferson Avenue, Saginaw, Michigan 48607.

Dr. Cirven Don Merrill

May 10, 1959 - October 15, 2022