[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 6 (Wednesday, January 18, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E31]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO ODELL MERRICK

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. HAROLD ROGERS

                              of kentucky

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 18, 2012

  Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to 
the late Odell Merrick, a successful Kentucky businessman and longtime 
community leader of Pulaski County, Kentucky. His passing is a great 
loss to his family, his community, and to me personally.
  As the Co-Founder and CEO of Cumberland Wood & Chair, Co-Owner of 
Somerset Wood Products, and Director of Citizens National Bank, Odell 
Merrick has left behind a legacy of successful business ventures.
  In 1985, Odell founded Somerset Wood Products, alongside his son, 
Steve Merrick, which grew over the years to become a nationally-
recognized manufacturer of hardwood flooring. Odell remained a co-owner 
with the company up until his death last November.
  In addition to his many successful business ventures, Odell was a 
highly active member of his church, where he taught Sunday school for 
more than 30 years. Serving as both a Deacon and Chairman of his 
church, Odell has been highly involved in many church projects, 
including the founding of Somerset Christian School.
  Odell was a man of service and dedication to his community and in 
2010, he was honored by the Somerset-Pulaski County Chamber of Commerce 
with the highest honor for those who have made significant 
contributions to the community, the ``Distinguished Community Service 
Award.''
  Odell Merrick leaves behind a devoted family: his loving wife of more 
than 53 years, Nancy Routt Merrick; their children, Steve Merrick and 
Debbie Eades of Somerset, KY, along with four sisters and 
grandchildren. On behalf of my wife Cynthia and myself, I want to 
extend our deepest heartfelt sympathies to the Merrick family.

                          ____________________