Merle GeertsDec. 30, 1927 - Dec. 1, 2016ELKHART - Merle L. Geerts, 88, of Elkhart, passed away at 4:26 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 1, at Elkhart General Hospital. He was born on December 30, 1927, in Elkhart to the late Henry and Nellie (Heun) Geerts. He married Joanne Tweedy on July 25, 1948, and was married 62 years until she passed away on March 26, 2010. He is survived by three daughters, Debra (Dennis) Strahan of Bristol, Teri (Mike) Crabill of Osceola, and Lisa Geerts of Elkhart; three grandchildren, Bryan (Michelle) Krallman, Stacey Krallman, and Keri (Johnny) Mulcahey; and six great-grandchildren. In addition to his wife Joanne, he was preceded in death by one daughter, Rae Krallman Oldroyd on May 29, 2010, five brothers, and one sister. Merle graduated from Elkhart High School. He served in the U.S. Navy receiving an honorable discharge in 1948. He retired from Commonwealth Life Insurance in 1986 after more than 30 years of service. He also worked over 60 years as a meat cutter for several local grocery stores, including Michigan Street Grocery and Charlie's Butcher Block, retiring at age 79.In his own words, Merle led a full and happy life. He was a devoted, warm, fun-loving father to his girls, and always had a dog by his side. He loved to tell a joke and sing a song to everyone he met. He had a beautiful voice and sang with the church choir and the Elkhart Symphony over the years. Merle was a life member of the Elks Lodge, joining in 1965. He was an avid golfer and scored two holes-in-one on the 12th hole of the Elks golf course. He had several long-term friends among his lodge brothers and enjoyed sharing time with them playing golf, cards and pool. Elkhart Cremation Services are entrusted with Mr. Geerts' arrangements. In keeping with his wishes, a private committal service will commence at a later date. Memorial contributions may be given to the Elkhart County Humane Society.