Dec. 21, 1929 — Nov. 2, 2015

Merle L. “Bud” Gearhart, 85, of Niles, Michigan died on Monday, Nov. 2, 2015, at Hanson Hospice Center in Stevensville, Michigan following a brief illness. He was born Dec. 21, 1929, in Edwardsburg, Michigan to Cloyd and Hattie (Smith) Gearhart.

Bud graduated from Edwardsburg High School in 1948 at was a Korean War veteran, having served in the United States Air Force. Bud delivered for Strauss Pies in Elkhart, Indiana and for Stewart Sandwiches in South Bend before owning and operating his own distribution company. Bud enjoyed still fishing and trout fishing and supporting his Detroit Tigers and University of Michigan Wolverines.

On Oct. 20, 1948, in Mishawaka, Indiana, Bud married the former Donna Rossow, with whom he recently celebrated their 67th wedding anniversary. Donna survives with their daughters, Melinda “Lindy” Gearhart and Jennifer Kull, all of Niles; a grandson, Ryan (Shalonda) Kull stationed at Malmstrom AFB in Montana and two great-grandchildren, Skyler and Emma Ayron.

Bud was preceded in death by his grandson, Ayron Kull, a son-in-law, Perry Kull and by five siblings.

The family will gather privately for services. Donations in memory of Bud may be made to the donor’s choice.

www.halbritterfunerals.com