Merrill James McKell, lovingly known as “Sig,” passed away peacefully at home in Spanish Fork, Utah, on May 3, 2026, at the age of 91. He was born on January 2, 1935, in Spanish Fork, Utah, to Merrill Goodson McKell and Thelma Sophia Johnson McKell.
Sig spent his life in the place he loved most, Spanish Fork, where he built a life centered around family, hard work, and the outdoors. He married the love of his life, Beckie Sue Crandall, on December 21, 1985, in Woodland Hills. Together they shared many wonderful years filled with love, laughter, and memories. He always lovingly referred to Beckie as “his Bride.” One of their favorite memories together began when he asked her to go boating at the lake, and she said yes.
Sig attended Spanish Fork High School where he played basketball and was known for being around 5’7” with plenty of heart. He was also a huge fan of the Utah Jazz, and during game nights you could often hear him yelling at the TV while cheering on his team. He was also a devoted BYU sports fan throughout his life.
He proudly served in the Army National Guard and spent many years working as a crane operator and truck driver. He worked for Geneva, Valley Asphalt, and Dave Grant, where he took great pride in operating heavy equipment and putting in an honest day’s work.
Sig loved camping, boating, fishing, old cars, gardening, yard work, and spending time with friends. His pride and joy was his big garden, which he cared for with love and dedication. He especially loved gathering with family and friends, never missing a chance to enjoy good company and make memories. Above all, he treasured his family and grandchildren.
He is survived by his wife, Beckie Sue McKell; his children Chet, Clint, and Logan (Richard Ross); six grandchildren; Trevor, Bree, Dakota, Sadie, Paisley, Presley and four great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Merrill Goodson McKell and Thelma Sophia Johnson McKell; his son, Michael; his brother, CJ McKell; and his sisters, Blanche Scheidecker and Merlene Fullmer.
Sig will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, his love for the outdoors, his quick humor, and the deep love he had for his family and friends. He loved God, loved his family fiercely, and left behind memories that will be cherished for generations.
The family would also like to thank the many nurses and caretakers who lovingly helped care for Sig during the last months of his life.
A memorial service will be held in Sig’s honor on Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at Walker Funeral Home located at 187 South Main St. in Spanish Fork, Utah.
1 Condolence for Merrill James McKell
Condolence(1)
Cliff and Kathy Johnson says
May 11, 2026 at 9:52 pmHi Beckie, I was very sorry to hear that Merril J has died. Back in the good old days when we were kids he was one of the leaders that organized things for all of us to do. He assembled a basketball standard on the side of the road, where we had alot of neighborhood games. He was a good coach and helped us all play better. He helped with golf hints also. We will also remember his 1950 blue chevy truck with vertical tail pipes behind the cab. He was a great cousin.