Rev. Merritt Bongard

Birth date: Sep 8, 1943 Death date: Jan 19, 2016

Merritt Franklin Bongard was born on September 8, 1943, in Alma, Michigan to LeRoy and Eleanor (Root) Bongard. He attended Alma Public Schools, graduating with the class of 1961. He loved the West and became an outfitter and a gui Read Obituary

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Rev. Michael Long

543w ago

Dear Lois and family,
I was so surprised to read of Merritt's death in the Asbury Seminary news letter. We had a lot of fun speculating about our first churches when we were sharing a class in our last semester in Wilmore.
I remember him as a constant encourager who was only hard on himself. He was always ready to listen and never failed to help me see what God might be doing in the midst of my struggle. Though I've lost track of the two of you, you have often been in my thoughts and prayers.
In the Master's Service,
Mike Long

Marlene Lord

544w ago

Dear Lois, We were so sorry to hear this news. My mother, Lois Hillsamer, loves you both and we thank you for ministering to her. Thank you also for the many sacrifices you both made to lead the Lakeview congregation. We look forward to the day when we can all be together with our Lord and Savior. Praying for your family, Marlene Hillsamer Lord

Judy Coffey

544w ago

After initially meeting Merritt over 30 plus years ago, little did I know that he would become a colleague in ministry as I served at the Epworth Church in Brethren. He
was so gracious, collegial, supportive and kind to me. I loved to watch him work the
"crowd" with his gracious hospitality. He was a person in love with his God and Savior,
his family, his congregation and his many friends. I am glad his life washed over mine.
Love to you Lois and your dear family at this time of loss. God's blessings, Judy Coffey.

Frank Slaughter

544w ago

The Bongards,
Maurine and I were shocked and saddened to hear of Merritt's sudden passing. We had just been so touched by his tribute to Connie a couple weeks before. Our hearts go out to you all and we will keep you in our prayers.

Frank and Maurine Slaughter
Battery D

Larry And Bev Brown

545w ago

Dear Lois and family,
We were surprised and saddened by the news of Merrit's passing. What a vibrant man of God. He always followed his passions and lived life fully. May you all take time to share good memories together and rejoice in the blessings God has given you. We are sorry we couldn't be with you this weekend.
Sincerely,
Larry and Bev Brown

Pat Ashley

545w ago

We love you...I do not have adequate words..
pat and jim in TN.

Mike Laraway

545w ago

Lois and family.....we were saddened to hear the news of Merritt's passing. I always enjoyed my conversations with him regarding family, marriage and being a father. I particularly enjoyed his hunting stories as a young guide in Wyoming. I will always remember the story of him facing a grizzly while on horseback! Our condolences to your family in this time of sorrow. Mike and Asha Laraway and family.

Doug Bowerman

545w ago

Lois,

Sorry to hear about the sudden loss of Merritt. Even though it's been many years Lisa and I remember the positive impact both you and Merritt had in our Williamsburg church community.
God Bless
Doug Bowerman

Daniel Shedd

545w ago

Dear Lois and Family,

My thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time. Merritt had a real gift of presenting his messages drawing from ancient texts, languages, archeology, poetry, music, dramatic presentations, and being very mobile on the pulpit and not just standing still which really got my attention. He presented his messages in an educational way which made it easy to follow and take notes, and most importantly to understand. Watching his enthusiasm during a chalk talk with a chalkboard really kept those attending really involved in the points his was making. I enjoyed conversations with him regarding books and history.

I apologize for not being at the services this weekend, but my thoughts and prayers will continue with you.

God Bless & Be With You!
Dan Shedd