James Merritt

James Henry Merritt Jr., 96, passed away peacefully on August 10, 2013 at Crittenton Hospital Medical Center in Rochester Hills, Michigan. James was born on August 7, 1917, in Detroit, Michigan, to James Henry Merritt Sr. and Amanda Sell Merritt. He spent his childhood in Detroit by the Michigan State Fairgrounds. He moved to Utica and graduated from Utica High School. James met the love of his life, Annabelle Shirley Merritt, at Utica High School. They were married for 67 years. During World War II, James travelled across the United States by train, fixing machinery in bomb-making factories. After the war, these skills helped James become a great inventor and a true handyman. As an involved member of his community, James was a lifetime Mason and a 50-year Rotary member with perfect attendance. He traveled extensively with Rotary International, meeting and friends all over the world. James' father started Nu-Way Supply in 1949 and he worked to expand and grow the company for much of his life. James loved experiencing life--he played golf, piloted airplanes, traveled, cultivated a family with his beloved wife, Annabelle, and always enjoyed manning the grill. He was a dependable man, full of integrity and respect for his fellow man. He was devoted to his sons, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Sons: Gary Marcia Merritt Larry DeneseMerritt Grandchildren:
Denise Clarence Parris
Rebecca Merritt Heath Allen
Jason Merritt
Jourdan Karen Merritt
Ashlie Merritt Great grandchildren:
McKenzie And Emily Allen Memorials appreciated to Sanctuary at Bellbrook - employee recognition fund - 873 W. Avon Road, Rochester Hills, MI 48307.