F. Jack Meyering

F. Jack Meyering, age 92, peacefully transitioned to be with his Lord December 20, 2023. Born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Jack embarked on a journey that encompassed profound faith, service, and dedication. After graduating from South High School, he dedicated three years of service as a radio operator in the US Coast Guard during the Korean War. During this time, fate introduced him to Charlot Mittlestadt, his cherished wife with whom he shared 67 years of devoted marriage until her passing March 16, 2023. After serving his country, he pursued a business education through the G.I. Bill at Davenport College, later earning the esteemed Distinguished Alumni Award in 2014. While studying, he embraced a part-time role at Atlas Cartage, a struggling local company. Jack’s leadership redirected the cartage business, transforming it into Atlas Trucking and under his guidance it became the largest independently owned truck rental and leasing company in the country by the time of its sale in 1989.

Jack held an unyielding commitment to Atlas and its employees, often saying “when you love what you do, you don’t have to work a day in your life.” Upon retirement, Jack and Char embarked on a seasonal rhythm, relishing winters in Palm City, FL and summers in Charlevoix, Michigan, enjoying cherished moments of boating, golfing, and treasured time with loved ones.

Guided by their deep-rooted faith, their legacy of compassion radiated through active volunteerism and support for The Salvation Army, Wellspring Lutheran Services, Davenport University, and many other charities dedicated to supporting women, children, and families. Their philanthropic endeavors touched many lives through the Meyering Compassion House in Stuart, Florida – a haven for homeless women and children – and the Wellspring Meyering Family Center in Kentwood, Michigan – providing invaluable behavioral health services to children and families in need.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Char Meyering; children Debra Meyering and Charles Meyering; siblings Bill Meyering and Phyllis Acton. He will be lovingly remembered by his children John (Laura) Meyering, Ron (Jane) Meyering; grandchildren Michael (Shelby Strah) Meyering, Andrea (Patrick) Snyder, Aaron Meyering, David (Kelly Feiten) Meyering, and Kevin Meyering; great-grandchildren Breslen Meyering, Jack Meyering, Makenna Snyder, and Clara Snyder.

Visitation with Jack's family and friends will be held from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Friday, December 22, 2023 at Cook Funeral Home (2067 84th St. SW, Byron Center), and from 10-11 a.m. Saturday, December 23 at Heritage Christian Reformed Church (3089 84th St. SW, Byron Center). Funeral services for Jack will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, December 23, 2023 at Heritage Christian Reformed Church.

In honor of Jack and in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Salvation Army – Compassion House in Martin County, Florida or Wellspring Lutheran Services in Kentwood, Michigan. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresbyron.com in their guest book online.