Merle Leister

Merle Ruth Leister of White Pigeon, Michigan passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Tuesday, September 24, 2024 at the age of 86.

Merle was born in Stoughton, Saskatchewan, Canada to William and Ivah (Cody) Brewer on April 11, 1938.

Merle and Larry were married on January 11, 1963. She and Larry enjoyed traveling and trips to the casino, and spending time with her children and grandchildren. She will be deeply missed but her memory will live on through the lives of her family and friends.

Merle is survived by her loving husband of 61 years, Larry; her daughters Lorene (Robert) Willems of Greenville, Wisconsin; Connie (Robert) Leighton of Mendon, Michigan; Cathy (Ron) Thurston of Lakeview, Michigan and son Larry Jr. of New Era, Michigan; Grandchildren Matthew Willems of Prior Lake, MN; Courtney (Caleb) Haley of Antioch, IL; Luke Willems of Madison, WI; Elisa Leighton (Chris Baldwin) of Galesburg, MI; Kylene Barnell of Indianapolis, IN; Arianna (Shawn) Guy of Sturgis, MI; Gabrielle (Josh) Roberts of Mendon, MI; Olivia Leighton of Seattle, WA; Alexis (Sam) Beagle of Grand Rapids, MI; Sean (Chelsea) Brandli of Sheridan, MI; Shannon (Lucas) Moody of Belding, MI; Great grandchildren Kinsley Haley; Ian Himes; Stark Swartzentruber, Ki'Va and Nevaeh Guy; Willow and Lilly Brandli.

She is further survived by her brothers Harold Brewer of Washington and Earl (Sylvia) Brewer of Tennessee, and several nieces and nephews.

Merle was preceded in death by her parents; brothers Jim, George, Ken, Dan and Charley; sisters Hazel Horowitz and Florence Parker and grandson Brandon Willems.

In accordance with the family's wishes, cremation has taken place. There will be a memorial service on Saturday, October 12, 2024 at Constantine Township Cemetery, 530 Florence Road, Constantine, MI beginning at 11:00 a.m.

Memorial donations may be made to Three Rivers Hospice in Merle's memory.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Merle's guestbook and/or share a memory with her family.

The Leister family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 129 South Grand Street, Schoolcraft, MI 49087. 269-679-5622.