John Mervenne was appreciated by those who knew him. He will be remembered as a man of integrity, honesty, gentle spirit, loyalty, generosity, wisdom and a sense of humor. He loved politics and parties, especially Christmas Eve, and enjoyed decorating the Christmas tree for every season.
John will be remembered as a good father and husband, and for his mastery in gardening dahlia's, carpentry and fine homebuilding, farming, classic car restoration, his love of classical music, especially Bach, and his extensive knowledge of Holland area history. He was a member of the Reformed Church, and also served on the advisory board of the Salavation Army for many years. He loved his cat, Clarence, but nothing compares to the love he kept in his heart for his family.
John was a successful businessman and long-time owner of Mervenne Beverage.
John is survived by his wife of 51 years, Barb, daughter and son-in-law Mercedes and Brett Saurbaugh, daughter-in-law Candida Mervenne, grandsons Arthur John III and Elijah Mervenne, Grant and Luke Saurbaugh, great-grandson Alexander John Mervenne II, sister Laurie Hekman, brother-in-laws and sister-in-laws: Sharon and Ken Machiela, Dorothy Petroelje, Ruth and Ivan Brand, Hope and Dale VanderWeide, Rebecca and Roger Feikema, and many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.
John was preceded in death by his son Alexander John Mervenne.
A celebration open house of John’s life will be held on Sunday, September 26, from 1-4:00pm at Butternut Event Centre, 977 Butternut Drive, Suite #8, Holland, MI 49424.
In lieu of flowers John’s favorite charities are Cran Hill Ranch, Gilmore Museum, and Community Reformed Church.
Please visit www.lakeshorememorial.com for further information.
