Frederick Louis Merian
SEPTEMBER 6, 1942 – AUGUST 22, 2024
 

Dr. Frederick Louis Merian, fondly known as “Dr. Fred,” passed away peacefully on August 22nd at the age of 81, in Wimberley, Texas. Born on September 6th, 1942, in Yoakum, Texas, Dr. Fred lived a life marked by dedication, service, and an unwavering commitment to his family, community, and patients.

Studying at the University of Texas and graduating in 1963, he continued his education at UTMB, earning his medical degree in 1967. During this, Dr. Fred met the love of his life, Merry. Fred and Merry married in 1965, beginning a partnership that would last a lifetime. Together, they became pillars of every community they touched, their unwavering bond a testament to their deep and enduring love. Through every challenge and joy, their marriage stood strong, a shining example of a love that endured for the rest of his life.

From 1966 to 1971, Dr. Fred served his country as a Captain in the United States Air Force, working as a flight surgeon. He returned to his hometown of Yoakum in 1971 to open his own practice, bringing his compassionate care to the community he cherished for 21 years. He was board-certified in family practice, becoming a beloved figure in Yoakum and, later, in Victoria, where he continued his medical practice until 2005. Semi-retiring in 2005, he continued his work part-time as a house-call physician until his full retirement in 2015.

Dr. Fred’s personal and professional achievements were numerous. Serving as both a trustee and then president of the Texas Medical Association, he also represented the TMA as a delegate for the American Medical Association. Following this, Dr. Fred went on to serve the medical community in a myriad of supervisory organizations at various levels of leadership. He was a lifelong member of the Knights of Columbus, where he served as the first Faithful Navigator of the Fourth Degree in Wimberley, Texas.

He enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, including golfing, a good glass of wine, “world-class” barbecue, a passionate dedication to regular exercise, and, most importantly, working with his patients.

With his cowboy hat and his boots, he was a true “country doctor.” ”If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” - Dr. Fred

Dr. Merian was predeceased by his parents and his sister Donna. He is survived by his wife Merry, his sister Charlene; three children, Laura, Deborah (Todd), and Kenneth (Gloria); his four grandchildren, Aidan, Alex (Jesica), Erin (Tristram), Marisol; nieces, nephews, and extended family. He also leaves behind a multitude of loving patients, friends, and chosen family, all of whom were touched by his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to others.

A Rosary will be held on September 9th at 10:00 AM, followed by Mass at 10:30 AM at St. Mary’s Church in Wimberley, Texas. Internment service will take place on September 11th at 3pm, in Oak Grove Cemetery, Yoakum, Texas.

In remembrance of Dr. Merian’s life, the family ask that any charitable donations be made to the Wimberley Knights of Columbus, or the Wimberley Volunteer Fire Department.

Merry Marian can be contacted at mmerian@txwinet.com