Merwyn holds a bachelors and masters degree from the University of Nebraska, a Master of Divinity from Evangelical Theological Seminary and S.T.M., and finally a Doctor of Ministry from San Francisco Theological Seminary. He has served churches in Culbertson, Aurora, McCook, Milford and Omaha. He also served 8 years as a missionary in Japan. While serving in Aurora, when the present church was built.

Youth are an important part of Merwyn's life as evidenced by his involvement in The Youth Center, 12th Street Cinema, the Skate Park, Paintball Club, and the Frisbee Golf Course in Aurora.

Merwyn and his wife Betty have six married children and 15 grandchildren.