Art Myers / 1923-2008
Published 7:39 pm Wednesday, May 28, 2008
By Staff
Services for Art Myers, 84, were held on Tuesday, May 27, 2008, at Connelly's Funeral Home in Cassopolis at 1 p.m.
Burial was in Dailey Cemetery on Dailey Road, Cassopolis.
Myers was born on Nov. 2, 1923, the son of Henry C. (Skeet) Myers and Catherine J. "Katie" (Smith) Myers.
He was most proud of his time spent serving his country. He entered the Navy on Dec. 17, 1940 and was granted his first leave home four years later. He re-entered the Navy and was medically and honorably discharged in 1948.
During his years in the Navy, his travels took him to places he would not ordinarily travel. He loved the Navy and continued to speak admirably about his shipmates
The Swordfish was his pride and joy. He also served on the USS Indiana and the USS Seagul. He was at Pearl Harbor when it was attacked.
When he returned to civilian life, he worked various jobs, but finally founded Myers Tree Service, which he ran for approximately 35 years.
His health slowly deteriorated after a tree accident in 1978 and he passed away peacefully with his family at his home on Friday morning, May 23.
His life consisted of many accomplishments besides his service to his country. He coached Little League for many years.
He was a race car and stunt car driver, derby car driver and Michigan Champion Archer.
Myers was an avid hunter and outstanding fisherman, who shared his love for the outdoors with his family and friends on many lakes in the surrounding community.
He was also an avid stamp collector who also shared his passion with friends and family and encouraged his grandchildren in the same.
He had a heart of gold for his grandchildren and many of those who considered him their adopted grandpa over the years. He was a great storyteller and a genuine human being. He will be greatly missed by his loving family and those who knew him.
On Aug. 17, 1979, he married Mary B. Reynolds.
He is also survived by two sons, Andrew Michael (Carol) in Oregon and Arthur E. (Karen) in North Carolina; step-children, John VanRiper of Michigan, Bill (Marilyn) VanRiper of Florida, Mark (Patti) Hurley of Edwardsburg, Kathleen (David) Mills of Cassopolis, Diane (Tom) Stephenson of Cassopolis and Michelle (Jim) Carpenter of Gobles; 10 grandchildren; 17 step-grandchildren and several step-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Robert and grandson, Brian.
Arrangements were by Connelly Funeral Home, Cassopolis.