Lawrence Herbert Merritt

Lawrence Herbert Merritt, beloved by his family and friends, passed away with grace and dignity on Friday, September 5th. His was a life well lived and well loved. He will be deeply missed. Larry’s legacy will continue through his wife and faithful sidekick, Meryle, his loving children and grandchildren, and all who had the good fortune to know him. Born in 1947 in Oak Park, Illinois, Larry was the eldest of four children and the only son of Eleanor and Herbert Merritt. Larry’s parents instilled in him a strong work ethic, sense of community and love of family. Larry thrived in his professional and personal life. A civil engineering graduate of Purdue University, he founded Merritt Engineering in July 1979. He took pride in the success of the business and his ability to provide for his family. He led a full, balanced life, and always made time for his community. He served 15 years as Trustee for St. Joseph Charter Township and held numerous leadership roles for organizations important to him including St. Joseph First United Methodist Church, the Berrien Community Foundation, and the Senior PGA. An avid sportsman and true competitor, Larry enjoyed the challenges and camaraderie of golf, basketball, baseball and fishing. An outdoorsman at heart, he loved nothing better than a roaring bonfire in his woods with family and friends. A wonderful man, Larry will be remembered by many, with love and affection. His family cherishes his memory and knows they will not look upon his like again. Larry is survived by his wife Meryle; son Lawrence (Nicole) Merritt, Jr. of Ann Arbor; daughter Hollis (Mark) Otero of Chicago, IL; four grandchildren: Wilson Merritt, Owen Merritt, Frank Otero and Mallory Otero; and three sisters: Donna Merritt, Diane Fisher and Susan DeVries. He was preceded by his parents. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 2:00 P.M. Friday, September 12, 2014 at St. Joseph First United Methodist Church, 2950 Lakeview Ave., St. Joseph, officiated by Pastor Harris Hoekwater. To honor Larry’s military service in the United States Army as a First Lieutenant in Vietnam, military rites will be provided by North Berrien Military Rites Team. Visitation will be held from 5:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. Thursday, September 11, 2014 at Starks & Menchinger Chapel and Cremation Services, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph. Memorial contributions may be made to Benton Harbor-St. Joseph YMCA Endowment Fund or St. Joseph First United Methodist Church Endowment Fund. Those wishing to sign Larry’s guestbook online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.