Marcia Lou Merillat

Marcia Lou Merillat passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, May 3, 2015 at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City, Michigan. Marcia was born in Elk Rapids on July 7, 1930, the daughter of A. Opal (Maxwell) and Earl Westlund. On April 15, 1950 she married Floyd “Buss” Merillat at the Elk Rapids Methodist Church. They shared 63 years together until he passed away on June 6, 2013.

Marcia was a medical assistant for more than 40 years, working for G.K. Green, DO, Robert E. Green, DO and at Urgent Care in Traverse City until her retirement in 1999. She was a member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, a long-term member of the Elk Rapids Golf Club and a board member for the Community Cupboard in Elk Rapids. She remained active with many interests. She was a good bridge player and an excellent golfer.

Marcia was very proud of her family. She is survived by her daughter Linda and husband John Pillsbury of Kewadin, son Bill Merillat and partner Tim Hamminga of Los Angeles, California, grandsons Matthew (Jennifer) Pillsbury of Waterford, Michigan and Kevin Pillsbury of Big Sky, Montana, her sister Dorothy (Carl) Merillat of Elk Rapids and many nieces and nephews. Marcia was preceded in death by her husband “Buss” Merillat, her parents and three brothers.

Marcia is also survived by Richard “Dick” Gotts of Elk Rapids, who brought joy and laughter to her life. They pledged their love for one another October 22, 2014 in a ceremony at their home surrounded by their families. Dick and Marcia spent countless hours “two-tracking” all around northern Michigan, playing cards, exploring the U.P of Michigan and traveling to Cancun, Mexico and The Villages, Florida in 2015.

A memorial service will be held Friday, May 15 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church with visitation one hour prior to the service.

Memorial donations may be directed to the Historic Elk Rapids Town Hall Association, the Elk Rapids Area Historical Society or the charity of one’s choice.