Life Story / Obituary
Merle W. Top, age 97, of Hamilton, passed away Thursday, October 24, 2024.
Merle was born in Overisel, Michigan on May 4, 1927 to Dennis and Stella Top. Merle was a long-time member of Overisel Reformed Church. He was known to many as a prayer warrior. Merle had a heart for mission work and spreading the good news of the gospel. He went on mission trips to Haiti, Guatemala, Alaska, Honduras, Brazil, Beliz, Ecuador, Camp Beach Point, Son Life Camp and Mississippi. He served in more than 200 mission trips in his lifetime. Merle was gifted with his hands and helped family and friends with many home improvement projects.
Merle was preceded in death by his loving wife of 69 years, Lois Top; sister, Evelyn Ter Haar and brother, Ivan Top.
He is survived by his children, Karen (Cliff) Meeuwsen, Margo (John) Wilson, Bruce (Shelley) Top; grandchildren, Eric, Brian, Tanya, Craig, Kyle, Darrin, Josh, Nicole, Alex and Zac; 17 great-grandchildren; sister, Gloria Lohman; brother in-law, John (Eileen) Schrotenboer; sisters in-law, Mary (Duane) Timmer, Judy Bosch, Jane (Wayne) Lampen, Ellen (Gord) Bosch, Bernice Schrotenboer and Sheryl Schrotenboer.
The family will receive visitors on Sunday, October 27, from 2:00pm to 4:00pm, at Overisel Reformed Church, 4706 142nd Ave, Holland. A funeral ceremony will be held on Monday, October 28, at 11:00am, at Overisel Reformed Church with Reverend Mike Pitsenberger presiding. Interment will be in Overisel Cemetery.
The family would like to thank Hospice of Holland and the caregivers at Resthaven for their loving and compassionate care.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Holland, 270 Hoover Blvd, Holland, MI 49423.
Professional service entrusted to the Downtown Chapel.