Obituary of Johnnie Merchain

SFC Johnnie Merchain, Vietnam Ve teran, passed away Nov. 19, 2020 after a valiant battle with Lewy Body Dementia with Parkinson’s. He died with his wife of 26 years, Karen, by his side. Johnnie was born June 26, 1947 in Los Angeles, CA to Helen (Aguallo) and Albert Merchain Sr. Johnnie was preceded in death by his father, Albert Sr. and his younger brother, Albert Jr. He graduated Garfield High School at age 17 and immediately joined the Army. He wanted to see the world, and he did. He served his country for 24 years with two tours in Vietnam. Upon retirement he went to work at Lacey Fred Meyer where he was employed for 22 years. Johnnie loved fishing with his sons, puttering in his shop and he loved growing roses like his father, Pop. He spent many hours gardening with his wife,Karen , a love they shared. Long road trips were enjoyed annually, mostly to LA to visit his family, which he held dear. His most treasured times were spent with his grandchildren. Johnnie is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Karen, his mother, Helen Merchain, his sons Matthew, Daniel (Sheila), and Andrew (Dena), stepsons Justin (Lacie) Kover, Leroy Kover, and David Kover, brothers David (Mary) Merchain, Jesse (Nayra) Merchain , and sister, Dolores Quesada, numerous nieces and nephews and his very beloved grandchildren, Johnathan Troy Merchain, Mina Lee Kover, Molly Cat Kover, Deja Marie Kover, Jazlin Merchain, Katelin Merchain, and Brady Brink. He so adored his grandkids. We want to thank our VA medical teams, Assured Hospice, specifically Nurses Billy and Rick, Johnnie’s loving caregiver, Deshirlean, for the best care anyone could ask for. May research continue in earnest regarding the association of Lewy Body Dementia, Par kinson’s Disease, and Agent Orange. Our veterans/soldiers have earned and deserve the validation and respect for their unending service to their country, either active or retired. And to our friends and family that stayed with us throughout this journey. Your love, loyalty, compassion, and empathy meant everything to us. Thank you ever so much. Services will be held on Dec. 19, 2020 at noon at the American Legion Hall on Marvin Road, Olympia, WA.