Merle Foster

Age 80, of Crystal, Michigan, formerly of Flint, died November 20, 2018, at his home. Funeral service will take place 1:00 pm on Tuesday, November 27, 2018, at Martin Funeral, Cremation & Tribute Services in Mt. Morris. Pastor Todd Frusti will officiate with cremation to follow. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Monday from 11:00 am to 8:00 am and again on Tuesday from 10:00 am until the time of service at 1:00 pm. Memorial contributions can be made to Franklin Avenue Mission or Old News Boys. Envelopes are available at the funeral home. Merle was born on October 9, 1938, in Pellston, Michigan, son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Charles and Marguerite (Portman) Foster. He married the love of his life, his one true love, Maraline Getcy on January 19, 1957. Sadly, she preceded him in death on October 10, 2011. They loved to travel together, especially going to Las Vegas. Merle worked for General Motors for 42 years as a foreman before his retirement. He was a Christian man who devoted his life to his family. Merle loved spending time with his family, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He loved cooking his famous pancakes for breakfast, playing cards, and having company over. In his free time, Merle enjoyed hunting, fishing, telling stories, watching football, playing horseshoes, reading his westerns and collecting antiques. Merle volunteered for the Franklin Avenue Mission. He will be greatly missed by many. Left to cherish his memory are his three children: Cheryl Lorenz and boyfriend, Craig Almassy, Frank and wife, Vickie Foster and Mary Jo and husband, Jason Biddle; 14 grandchildren: Michael, Joseph, Jonathan, Chrystal, John, Amber, Frank Jr., Andrew, Kristen, Amanda, Scott, Cody, Jayden and Caelin; 13 great-grandchildren; brother: Norman and wife, Dorothy Foster; sister: Arlene Trisch; special friends: Judy Teegardin, Jim and Mezzy Senical, and Butch and Kathy Kearly; and many nieces, nephews and friends. Merle was preceded in death by his wife, Maraline Foster, son, John Foster, daughter, Gay Ann Foster, parents and sister, Ida Mae O’Donnell.