Robert Mervau

Robert Earl Mervau, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather passed away on Saturday, October 10, 2020 at the age of 98 at Gratiot Community Hospital, Alma, MI.

Robert was born August 12, 1922 in Northport, MI, the son of Robert E. and Margaret (Hunter) Mervau Sr.  Robert grew up in Northport, MI and worked in his father’s pharmacy and cherry orchards until being drafted into the U.S. Navy during WWII as a pharmacist’s mate. He married Maxine Andreae on August 14, 1948 and enjoyed 57 years of marriage before her death on October 15, 2005.  Robert received his license to practice pharmacy in 1951. He owned his own pharmacy in Portland, MI where he resided with his family for 53 years. Robert retired from pharmacy in 1984.

Robert belonged to the Portland United Methodist church where he was a faithful supporter since 1959. He was also a Mason for 75 years and resided at Michigan Masonic Pathways, Alma, MI since 2013.  He was a member of the American Legion Post #225. Robert loved bowling, golfing, and gardening but above all else, enjoyed being with his family.

Surviving are his three daughters; Andrea (Louis) Stocks, Martha (David) Kellett, and Sally Ankney. Also surviving are three grandchildren; Rebecca (Joe) Bozarth, Kara Tilot, and Paul Kellett, seven great-grandchildren, a sister-in-law, Barbara Mervau, nieces, nephews, friends, and a close friend and previous neighbor, Norman Nephew.  Robert was preceded in death by his wife, Maxine née Andreae, son-in-law, Gary Ankney, two sisters and brothers-in-law; Dorothy (Harry) Smith, Jeanne (Orin) Fredrickson, and two brothers and sisters-in-law; Wayne (Alice) Mervau, Charles (Maria) Mervau and brothers; Robert Arnold Mervau (infant) and Richard Mervau.

Based on Robert’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A Private Family Graveside Service will be held at Elmwood Cemetery, Yale, MI, at a later date.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorial contributions to the Portland United Methodist Church, 310 Bridge St, Portland, MI 48875 or Michigan Masonic Pathways, 1200 Wright Ave, Alma, MI 48801.  Online condolences may be made at www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com  The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, St. Louis, MI.