Merrill Gloyd Sprouse

Loving husband, father, grandpa, “Bompa”, “Grandpa Cowboy”, passed away in his “glass house” in St. George on Monday, Oct 31st, 2022.

Gloyd was born on September 21st, 1937 in Garden City, Utah to Merrill and Myrle Sprouse. He was the oldest and only son. He went to Fielding High School, class of 1955. He met the love of his life at age 13, and they were married in the Logan temple on April 1st,1956. Together they moved to Salt Lake City, where they would reside and build their family. He was an active and loving member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, a remarkable example of goodness and kindness to his family.

Gloyd was SO proud of his family. He wanted his “Deanie” by his side, always. Over their 62 years of marriage, they had many adventures together, lots of site-seeing, back and forth from Bear Lake to St. George and lots of fun trips with family and friends. He always looked at Dean with a twinkle in his eye—he loved her so deeply.

Gloyd was a loyal, thoughtful friend, and often lent a helping hand. He was the hardest worker, and took the utmost pride in that. He worked for Hercules Inc. from 1962-1993 before retiring, and wore his retirement ring proudly for years. Retirement didn’t keep him though, he explored other jobs he enjoyed, and always kept busy.

Gloyd was a leader. When his sons started playing sports, he coached them in little league, and continued to coach for 13 years! He later began a tradition of BYU football season tickets for his family, and spent 45 seasons cheering on the cougars with his favorite people. A True Blue Cougar Fan, he taught each of his granddaughters to “Ra ra ra, goooo Cougars!” very early on, and even took them on away game road trips. They’d sing and laugh all the way.

Gloyd enjoyed the outdoors—camping, hunting, fishing, boating, and golfing with his boys and granddaughters. He taught them all self reliance, safety, and fun; and made great memories together.

Gloyd’s four granddaughters outnumbered him, and he never let them forget it. He’d often walk around the house looking around at all of them, and sigh, “girls, girls, girls, everywhere I look!” And they were—almost every Saturday for sleepovers! He would sometimes compliment a job well done by telling them with a *wink*, “you’re a good boy, honey!” Gloyd’s sense of humor was one of a kind. His laugh, one in a million. He was fun loving, and tender hearted. Insightful, and loved meaningful conversation about life.

His family often got after him for worrying so much, but it was truly because he loved them so dearly, and wanted nothing more than for them to be safe and content. He kept track of many nieces and other relatives he loved very much as well; and loved to share his pride for them.

That love and pride multiplied as great-grandkids came along, more and more girls to love, and now a couple boys! He loved all his “kiddies” and just beamed with happiness whenever they were together. He treasured every hug and kiss on the cheek. And every encouraging “Go, grandpa, GO!”

Gloyd is survived by his wife, Nadine; two sons, Steve(Kerrie), and Layne; four granddaughters, Jesi (Mark), Amanda(Andy), Ashlee(Michael); and his very favorites—his 8 great-grandchildren—Taylor, Madison, Zoey, Jaxon, Quinn, Kenadee, Thea, and Hudson. He is preceded in death by his sister Lynette, loved parents and in-laws, grandparents, and his guardian angel granddaughter, Dani.

A viewing will be held Saturday, November 5th, from 10:30am-12:45pm at the Garden City Chapel. Funeral services will be at 1pm. Following, a grave dedication will take place at Garden City Cemetery

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