Ernie Merritt, 90

Ernie W. Merritt,  age 90, of Constantine, died  Thursday, September 8th, 2011 at his home. He was born in Constantine, MI on January 6, 1921, a son of  Frank and Cora (Sawyer) Merritt. Ernie graduated from Constantine High School in 1939 and served the US Army from 1942 to 1945.  On May 25, 1952 he married Zelma Jackson in LaGrange. Ernie worked as a welder at Armstrong Machine Works in Three Rivers, retiring in 1986.
Surviving are his wife Zelma Merritt, Constantine, sons Larry (Patti) Merritt, Elkhart, IN, Vander Merritt, Constantine, Marvin Merritt, Constantine, step grandchildren Angela Taul, Traci (Tyler) Sands and Leann Foreman, 6 step Great Grandchildren, and brother Roy  Merritt of White Pigeon.
He was preceded in death by his  parents, brothers, Frankie, Dick and Lyle Merritt, and sisters Lillian Studebaker and Irene Featherstone.
Cremation has taken place. A Memorial Service will be held September 17, 2011 at 3 P.M. at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witness in Bristol, IN. Memorial contributions may be made to Borgess VNA and Hospice; 348 N. Burdick St., Kalamazoo, MI 49007. On line messages may be left for the family at www.eleyfuneralhomes.com.