Merrill Everett Hruby Berry Franklin (formerly Merrill Everett Berry), 94, passed away January  26 , 2023, in the Salt Lake City Veteran's Nursing Home.

Born Nov 12, 1928, in Boston, Massachusetts to Lillian Hruby and later adopted by Edmund and Caroline Berry of Haverhill, Massachusetts.  He served in the U.S. Army from 1950 to 1953 in Germany, specializing in Morse code.  Married Arline Mildred Fairbanks Lawes in 1956, later solemnized in the Washington D.C. Temple.  Lived in Massachusetts until 1977 when he moved to Salt Lake City, Utah.  Active member in the LDS church in Foxboro, Massachusetts and in various wards and branches in Salt Lake City, including at the Veteran's Nursing Home.  His second marriage was to Pauline Levrault Franklin at which time he changed his last name to Franklin.  He will be remembered for his accomplished musical talent which he shared throughout his life.  The Veteran's Nursing home residents were entertained for many years by his wonderful musical gift.

He is survived by one biological son, seven step-sons, and many grandchildren and great grandchildren.  Preceded in death by both his wives.

Services will be held on February 1, 2023 at City View Mortuary, 1001 East 11th Ave Salt Lake City, UT.  Viewing will be from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM immediately followed by the funeral service at 11:00 AM at the City View Mortuary chapel, 1001 East 11 ^th Ave in Salt Lake City, Utah.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Disabled American Veterans, or a similar veteran's aid group.