Merwin Kjar

Merwin Kay Kjar was born on August 22, 1946, in Gunnison, Utah, the fourth son of Lloyd and Kathleen Kjar. He passed away on February 6, 2025 after a courageous battle of Lymphoma. He grew up in Manti, Utah, where he spent his youth fishing, hunting, and raising his beloved bantam chickens. Merwin graduated from Manti High School, attended Snow College, and earned his degree in English and History from Utah State University.

Merwin served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Finland, where he developed a lifelong love for the Finnish people and culture. One of the highlights of his life was returning to Finland on vacation to revisit the places and people that held such a special place in his heart.

On July 17, 1970, Merwin married his sweetheart, Gay Blackham, in the Manti Utah Temple. Together, they built a beautiful life centered on faith, family, and service. They were blessed with five children: Shane (Rochelle), Kim (Ryan), Daniel (Lindsey), Nate (Amanda), and Adrian (Serene). Merwin dedicated his career to teaching English and History in North Sanpete School District. He influenced countless lives, both in and out of the classroom. Merwin’s cursive handwriting was extraordinary. Friends and family often asked him to write special documents for them because of his penmanship.

Merwin was an avid gardener and baker and loved to share his harvest and baked goods with others. He was an excellent marksman and loved pheasant and deer hunting with family and friends. He was also a skilled carpenter and woodworker building many homes and turkey barns in the area. He was known for his craftsmanship and quality work. He used his talents to bless his children, helping them with their homes.

Merwin also loved sports. He coached Junior Jazz and church basketball teams and was a passionate fan of BYU sports and the Utah Jazz. Many happy moments were spent in the south end zone of LaVell Edwards Stadium, cheering on BYU football alongside his family. He had a deep love for music and created cherished family memories on road trips, singing along to Johnny Horton and Johnny Cash.

A devoted disciple of Jesus Christ, Merwin served faithfully in many capacities within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including as bishop and in the bishopric of the Moroni 1st Ward. He also served in the Manti Temple as an ordinance worker for 18 years. He had a unique ability to uplift those who were struggling, guiding them closer to the Savior through his compassion and testimony. Merwin's legacy is one of faith, hard work, honesty, and love for his family. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father, a proud grandfather, and a man who quietly blessed the lives of all who knew him.

A public graveside service will be held on February 8th at 2 pm at the Moroni, Utah Cemetery. Immediately following the graveside ceremony, a public reception celebrating his life will take place at the Moroni LDS Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to The LDS Humanitarian Fund.

To Watch Recorded Graveside services, Click Here.