Marlin J. Dreyer, age 83, passed away on Monday, November 19th, 2018, at his home in Grand Rapids. He was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Anne Dreyer, his sister- and brother-in-law, Eileen and John De Meester, brother-in-law Bill Gritter, and brother-in-law Robert Mercier.
He is survived by Muriel, his wife of 44 years; his three children, Tim, Lou Anne, and Steven; his daughter-in-law, Erica; his three grandchildren, Grady, Finley and Samantha and her husband Jeremy; his sister, Pernella Gritter; special friends Marcia and Greg Miller; sisters- and brothers-in-law Monique Mercier and Paul Difflipp, Suzann Mercier, Paul and Mary Jo Mercier, Yvonne Mercier and Mark Spraic, Gerald and Rebecca Mercier, Gisele Mix, and Collette Mercier; and many nephews, nieces, and cousins.
Marlin was a true Michigan adventurer. There wasn’t a motorsport that he and his family didn’t enjoy, especially the dunes at Silver Lake with his own custom built dune buggy. Marlin really loved cars and had a knack for fixing them. So, it was no surprise that he wanted to open his own auto repair shop. On April 4, 1976, M&T Auto Service opened its doors in Grandville, MI. He and his son Tim built a successful business over many years. By age 62, he was ready to retire, which he thoroughly enjoyed. He spent much of it reconnecting with old friends, developing a special relationship with Sami, his granddaughter in Grand Rapids, traveling to see his California children and grandchildren, learning new skills on his computer, and kicking back in his well-maintained garden. His love for cars never waned in retirement – he purchased one of his favorite cars of all time, a Chevy Corvair in desperate need of love and attention. He and his son Tim teamed up once again to rebuild it and continued to do so until his final days.
Marlin will be missed for his indomitable sense of humor, kindness, and forgiveness. He was a very lovable, friendly and funny guy. He now lives in our hearts and our memories as a deeply committed husband and a champion for his children’s dreams.
Per his wishes, there will be no visitation or service. A private family interment will take place in early summer.
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