Bill Merchant

William M. Merchant, Jr., age 55 of Hopkins, died following an automobile accident June 11, 2015. He was preceded in death by his parents William and Claudene Merchant and his father-in-law Wayne Ritz. Bill will be lovingly remembered by his daughters: Nicole (Nathan) Cardosa, Jessica Merchant (Nicole Myers), Brittini Merchant, and Macy Merchant; his grandchildren: Raegan and Landen Cardosa; his sisters: Sue (Marty) Tourangeau, Lisa (Chris) Taylor, and Keri (Tim) Meyer; several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. He is also survived by his wife Debra Merchant, his sisters-in-law: Cheri Ritz, Melissa (Richard) Ritz-Johnson, and Jennifer Ritz (Angel DeSantis); and mother-in-law Carol Ritz. Bill was a graduate of Hopkins High School. He worked for many years at Steelcase and was currently employed at Perrigo. Bill was the long time Assistant Boys Basketball Coach at Wayland High School. He had a passion for watching his daughters play sports and was their biggest fan. Bill enjoyed playing basketball, golfing, and coaching. Above all his daughters and grandchildren were his greatest joy. Friends may visit with his family Sunday, June 14, 2015, from 4-8 PM at the Wayland Union Fine Arts Center, 870 E. Superior Street, Wayland. A funeral service will be held at the Wayland Union Fine Arts Center Monday, June 15, 2015 at 11 AM. Donations in memory of Bill may be made to Wayland Athletic Boosters or a charity of your choice. Please share memories of Bill with his family at www.kubiakcook.com. Floral deliveries will be received at the funeral home until 1:00 PM Sunday. Deliveries will be received at the Wayland Union Fine Arts Center after that time. Visitation June 14, 2015 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM Wayland Union High School Fine Arts Center 870 E. Superior St. Wayland, MI Funeral Service June 15, 2015 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM Wayland Union High School Fine Arts Center 870 E. Superior St. Wayland, MI