Merle J. Maier

Merle John Maier, aged 91, of Caledonia, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 26, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He will be dearly missed by his children: Chris Fuller, Cheri Morehouse (Rick Gemmen), Patti (Bruce) Ullery, Susie (Bob) Whitmore, and Ted Maier (Glenda Lewis); 16 grandchildren; 35 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers, Sim Maier and David (Marlene) Maier, and his sister, Doris Magley.

Merle lived a full and active life, filled with numerous interests and adventures. He was especially proud of his career at GM Diesel Equipment, where he worked with dedication and pride for over 35 years. His strong work ethic and mechanical skills were also reflected in his hobbies—including building a 1931 Model A roadster and buying and restoring antique tractors and classic cars. Some of his favorite memories were made on Lake Michigan aboard his 32-foot cabin cruiser, taking trips to Mackinac Island.  

He had a lifelong love for gardening and could often be found outside with his hands in the soil, sharing the fruits of his labor with family and friends. He was also a loyal dog owner and enjoyed their companionship through the years.  He was an entrepreneur at heart, owning and operating a marl business, a U-cut Christmas tree farm, and producing maple syrup. Even in retirement, Merle kept his mind sharp by tracking the stock market daily, never losing his interest in learning and observing the world around him.  

Funeral services for Merle will be held Friday at 1:00 p.m. at Gaines Church, 1612 92nd St. SE, with Pastor Tom Datema officiating. A private interment will take place at Blain Cemetery.  

The family will receive relatives and friends at Matthysse-Kuiper-DeGraaf Funeral Chapel (Caledonia), 616 E. Main St., on Thursday from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.  

We would like to especially thank the Legacies Assisted Living staff for the care and love they gave Merle over the past three weeks. We appreciate you more than words can say.