Husband, Dad, Grandpa, Pastor, Friend, Mentor, Teacher. Merle DenBleyker was known and loved by so many for who he was and how he impacted their lives. Most importantly, Merle wanted to be known for being a Child of God. Merle DenBleyker passed away from this life on earth on March 23, 2021, having completed the work God called and gifted him to do. God called Merle to his eternal home in heaven and is celebrating the arrival of His “Good and Faithful Servant!”
Born in Holland, Michigan, Merle grew up in northwest New Mexico where his parents served as missionaries. God called Merle to serve Him as a missionary and pastor, but he also served God as a mentor and teacher to so many. Merle, and his wife Donna, served as missionaries in Puerto Rico from 1972-1982. Merle then served as the pastor at Calvin Christian Reformed Church (LeMars, IA) from 1982-1987, served as part of the administrative team for Christian Reformed World Missions (Grand Rapids, MI) from 1987-2001, and then as pastor at Ebenezer Christian Reformed Church (Berwyn, IL) from 2001-2013. In 2013, Merle and Donna retired to Mesa, Arizona where they continued to serve God in several different ministries. Merle loved to spend time with his wife, children and grandchildren.
Merle will be lovingly missed by his wife of 51 years, Donna; four children and their spouses – Jeff (Jenna), Mike (Stacey), Lynette (David), Kristi (Mick); and twelve special grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, please donate in Merle's memory to Creation Church or Iglesia Creacion.
A Celebration of Life is being held in honor of the life and legacy of Merle at Creation Church at 2:30pm. The family respectfully requests that those that join us wear a mask.
