Phillip Herbert Merrifield

February 17, 1945 - October 18, 2018

Phillip “Phil” Herbert Merrifield, a man who enjoyed his morning coffee and, in the evening, an Old Milwaukee, died unexpectedly on Thursday, October 18, 2018. Phil, 73, was born February 17, 1945 in Grand Rapids, MI to Herbert and Evelyn (Windquest) Merrifield. Phil enjoyed being outdoors, he took a strong pride in his yard and his garden. He loved having cookers in his backyard and having the entire family over. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing. Phil loved cruising the backroads in his black streaker van. He always told his children “if you’re kicking up dust you’re going too fast”. Phil had a strong passion for singing, every Thursday he could be found singing to the patients at the Eaton County Health & Rehabilitation Services. His love for singing was passed down to his children. Above all Phillip adored his family, he never forgot a family member's birthday and always treated you to a cake on your special day. Phil is survived by his loving family, first wife, Jane Merrifield-Gidner; children, Martha (Terry) Bryant, John Merrifield, Jack (Benita) Merrifield; grandchildren, Steven Bryant, Michael Bryant, Hunter Merrifield, Angel Merrifield, Arianna, and their mother, Tara Ankney; siblings, Roger (Marilyn) Merrifield, Rick (Linda) Merrifield; foster children, Tara Siler, Sean Brady, and Troy Brady. Phil was predeceased by his parents, and grandson, Joshua Bryant. Friends are encouraged to support Phillip's family at visitation and funeral services. Funeral services are Tuesday, October 23, 2018 at 4:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor Charles Jenson officiating. Visitation will be held from 3-4:00 p.m. just prior to the funeral. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to The Eaton County Health & Rehabilitation Services Activity Fund. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Phillip on his Tribute Page at www.PrayFuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.