Merlin Albert Petzold, known to his loved ones as Merl, peacefully passed away on September 22, 2023, in Grand Rapids, MI, at the age of 89. Born on March 16, 1934, in Grand Rapids, Merl's life was defined by his unwavering devotion to the Christian faith, which he exemplified through his words and deeds.

Merl's journey through life was marked by compassion and love. Early in his marriage, his wife Nadine was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, and Merl dedicated himself to providing her with the utmost care and comfort. Together, they created a nurturing home environment and raised their two sons, Steve and Tom.

After Nadine's passing in 2001, Merl found solace and love in Ann Lusk, a mutual friend of his and Nadine's. Merl and Ann were married in 2002, and their companionship brought joy and fulfillment to his later years.

Merl had a lifelong passion for automobiles, particularly electric and hybrid vehicles. He was an avid fan and owner of these innovative cars, even renting EV1 vehicles during his visits to California. Notably, he purchased the first Chevy Volt sold in Grand Rapids.

In addition to his automotive pursuits, Merl found immense purpose in sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ with others. He established a home workshop where he crafted crosses, distributing them freely to friends and strangers alike. This simple act of kindness broke down barriers and served as a source of comfort to those he encountered.

Merl's professional career was dedicated to General Motors Corporation, where he rose to the position of Chief Powerhouse Engineer at the Fisher Body Plant #2. He took pride in his environmental protection efforts, particularly in preserving the Plaster Creek Watershed area. Upon retirement, Merl founded a non-profit organization called Envirotrol, which produced environmental control devices using sip and puff technology to assist severely handicapped individuals. He was committed to providing these devices without regard to a client's financial means.

Merl will be deeply missed by his beloved wife, Ann Lusk Petzold, his sons Steve Petzold (Thane) and Tom Petzold (Kathy), his stepdaughter Joan Lusk, his stepson Eric Lusk, his sister Margaret Houk, his grandchildren Steve (Rachel), Annie, Spencer (Coralie), Sam, Clarissa, and Rachelle, great-grandchild Sadie, Brianna, and Hunter Joy. He was preceded in death by his father Albert (Al) Petzold, his mother Ruth Petzold, and his brother Edgar (Ed) Petzold, and Tom R Wood a cousins Merl considered a brother.

A funeral service to celebrate Merl's life will be held at Our Savior Lutheran Church, located at 2900 Burton St SE, Grand Rapids, MI, on Thursday, September 28, 2023, at 11:00 am, visitation one hour prior to service.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial contributions may be made to Our Savior Lutheran Church, Mel Trotter Ministries or the charity of one's choice.