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Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52401
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Daniel Duane Merritt
Daniel Duane Merritt
Cedar Rapids
Daniel Duane Merritt, 71, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, passed away on July 19, 2025, due to cardiac disease.
Born March 29, 1954 in Springville, Iowa, Dan lived an unconfined life full of grit and humor. He could be rough around the edges, quick-witted, stubborn as hell, and still—the kind of person you could count on when it mattered most. He didn’t always say how he felt, but for those who knew him well, his love ran deep.
Dan spent many years doing maintenance, home repair, and painting. He worked at Murdoch Cemetery and later with the City of Cedar Rapids Parks & Recreation. He took pride in showing up to help, especially when something needed fixing. He was a jack of all trades who rarely sat still and never stopped tinkering or finding ways to be useful. He loved old cars, races, classic rock, the Dallas Cowboys, and any chance to chat with people who’d shoot it straight.
He is survived by his children: Jason Cisler, Dana Curtis (DeMira & Dejah), Danielle Gilbert (Spencer & Brynlee), Eric Merritt (Gwendolyn), Andrew Merritt (wife Melissa; Kalyssa & Riley).
He is also survived by his sisters: Janice Power-Brost, Karen Armstrong, Pat Swartz, and Judy Merritt.
Dan was preceded in death by his father Ira Merritt, mother Evelyn (Mayer) Merritt Henle, brother Jerry Merritt, sister Lynne Crystal, and nephew David Crystal.
He leaves behind extended family, friends, and others who shared life with him in one way or another. Many relationships were complicated, but at the heart of it, Dan cared more than he let on. He’ll be remembered for his humor, his hands-on help, and the pieces of himself he passed on—good, imperfect, and human.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 2, in Cedar Rapids at Village Tap (1616 Sixth St. SW) from 12-3 pm. Family and friends are welcome to gather, tell stories, and reflect on the reminder Dan’s passing leaves us with: Life is short, relationships matter, and saying the hard things while we have the chance is worth it.
In lieu of flowers, donations to support the family with final arrangements can be sent via Venmo @Dan_Merritt_Fund or Cash App $danmerrittfund. Your kindness is appreciated.
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