Max Roy Merchant

Max R. Merchant, age 84, of Elk Rapids passed away Friday, April 7, 2017. He was born August 1, 1933 in Traverse City to Roscoe and Doris (Hayes) Merchant. He married the late Coral L. Hendrick on October 15, 1956 in Angola, Indiana.

Max enlisted in the US Army and served during the Korean War. After his service, Max returned home and worked as a lineman for several companies until his retirement. In his spare time, Max enjoyed deer hunting and fishing. He was a social butterfly and was often found at Elk Harbor having a cup of coffee.

Max is survived by his children: Christopher (Susan) Merchant of El Dorado Hills, California, Stephanie (Daryl) Brandt of Kalkaska, and Cheryl Merchant of Elk Rapids; five grandchildren: Max and Micah Merchant, Shawn Michael Crampton, Alex Andrew Rudisel, and Grace Lardie; siblings: John (Betty) Merchant of Elk Rapids and Dixie Merchant of Elk Rapids.

Besides his parents, Max was preceded in death by his wife, Coral and brothers Jim and Dwayne Merchant.

A memorial service was held Saturday, April 15, 2017 at 1 p.m. at Covell Funeral Home. Max was laid to rest, next to his wife, at Maple Grove Cemetery with full military honors. There was a luncheon held at the AmVets in Elk Rapids 410 Bridge St, Elk Rapids, MI 49629 after the services.

Memorial contributions were directed to the Elk Rapids American Legion.

Arrangements were entrusted to Covell Funeral Home of Elk Rapids.