Merrill Syde

VANDER SYDE (Rockford) - Mr. Merrill Vander Syde, age 75, passed away at his residence on July 7, 2013. Merrill was born on June 11, 1938 in Matlock, Iowa. He was employed with Keeler Brass as a machine operator for 33 years. Mr. Vander Syde was the proud owner of Vander Syde Motor Sales in Rockford for 20 years. He was a 40 year member of the Buick Club of America (BCA). Merrill was a good father, hard worker and he inspired others to work hard. He loved to travel and was an 'enthusiastic car guy'. Mr. Vander Syde is survived by his loving wife, Ruegina; children, Dennis Lee (Roberta) Vander Syde, Gregory Alan (Nancy) Vander Syde, Donald Ray Vander Syde, and Geffery Dean Vander Syde; 10 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; sister, Henrietta (Garrett) Tilstra; several brothers and sisters-in-law, and nieces and nephews. Merrill was preceded in death by his parents, Cornelius and Minnie; sisters, Katherine Vander Syde and Magdalene; grandchildren, Eric and Caleb; and brother, Tony. The Funeral Service for Mr. Vander Syde will be held on Friday, July 12, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. at the Ronan-Vanderpool-Stegenga Funeral Chapel, 3131 S. Division Ave., Wyoming, with Rev. John Paepke officiating. Relatives and friends may meet with the Vander Syde family at the Stegenga Funeral Chapel (note: Belmont location), 1601 Post Dr. on Thursday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. and one hour prior to the service at the Wyoming Chapel. Those considering an expression of sympathy are asked to consider Mel Trotter Ministries. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Merrill Syde please visit our Sympathy Store.