Obituaries

Charles Edward Merry, age 75, of Brevort, Michigan, went to be with his Savior, Jesus Christ, after a long and courageous battle with cancer on September 1, 2026. Charlie, as he was known to friends and family, was born on May 14, 1951, in Van Wert, Ohio, to parents Charles Homer and Gerry Merry.

Charlie married Eileen Ann Darby on May 31, 1977, and gave his life to the Lord shortly after. It was only then, he would tell you, that his life truly began. Charlie was the ultimate provider for his wife and two daughters, Natalie Ann and Elizabeth “Beth” Ann. Everything he did was to provide care, comfort and love to these ladies and his surrounding family, always putting others before himself.

After a long and successful career in long-distance trucking, he retired to his true love of woodworking, touring the craft show circuit with his beautiful creations made of exotic woods. He always carried his handmade, old-rugged crosses that he would give away to anyone in need of hope. If you asked those who met him, they would tell you that he was always looking for the bright side, looking for ways to praise and share his Lord, and brag on his girls and grandbabies.

Every sale he made, every card he gave out, and every conversation he had pointed to his deep faith and relationship with our Heavenly Father. His favorite verse was Matthew 8:27, “And the men marveled, saying, ‘What sort of man is this, that even winds and sea obey him?’”

Charlie is survived by his wife of over 50 years Eileen Ann Merry of Brevort; daughters, Natalie Ann Merry of Grand Rapids, Michigan and Elizabeth “Beth” Ann LaForest of Brighton, Michigan; and son-in-law, Matthew Adam LaForest of Brighton whom he considered his own. He also leaves behind his older sister, Linda Merry of Mackinaw City, Michigan; little brother, Michael Merry of St. Ignace, Michigan; and his six grandbabies that were his whole world, Brittni Ann Merry, River Estel Merry, Joseph Charles LaForest, Isabella Ann LaForest, Sean Kenneth LaForest, and Noah James LaForest.

Charlie was preceded in death by his loving parents, Charles Merry and Gerry (Merry) Gordon.

The family will be having a private celebration of life at a later date. Charlie’s family is so blessed by the outpouring of help, love and care that was given during this time by friends, health care workers, and the EMT’s of St. Ignace.

Family Life Funeral Homes – St. Ignace assisted the family with arrangements. Condolences may be given to the family at www.familylifefh.com. Obituary submitted by Family.