After college, Merrick was in the United States Marine Corps for several years and then began a career in sales for Folger's Coffee.
He previously served as senior vice president/general manager for both the Myron Green Cafeterias Company and Treat America.
[1][7] He is married to Phyllis Merrick, lives in Stilwell and holds a business administration degree from Washburn University of Topeka.
The remarks stimulated an intense backlash, particularly from government workers representatives and the Kansas Democratic Party (who circulated a petition calling for Merrick's departure from the Speaker's seat).
After redistricting for the 2012 elections, Merrick filed for the House 27 seat held Charlotte O'Hara, R-Overland Park.