Merle Edwin Bruens, 80, of Cassopolis, died peacefully Wednesday, March 13, 2019, in the comfort of his family’s presence.

He was born Feb. 26, 1939, in Dowagiac to Arthur and Laura Bruens, Sr. He married Leilani Lee “Lani” Shetterly Sept. 23, 1961, in Cassopolis. She survives.

Merle will be remembered for being a diehard Michigan fan and a Little League Baseball coach.

Merle will be greatly missed by family and friends. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Lani Bruens, of Cassopolis; one son, Christopher Bruens, of Cassopolis; nine grandchildren, Kevin Bruens, Cheyenne Bruens, Brandi Whitmore, Angie Whitmore, Cal Pompey, Chris Pompey, B.J. Wallace; Adrian Wallace, Antonio Wallace; nine great-grandchildren; two sisters, Lauratta (Barney) Smith, of Auburndale, Florida, Kay Bruens of Akron, Indiana; two brothers, Raymond “Zip” Bruens, of Mishawaka, Gordon Bruens, of Florida; and a host of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Bruce Bruens; four sisters, Velma Bradley, Rose Williams, Cleo Findlay, Alta Dokey; and two brothers, Lloyd Hilgendorf and Arthur “Red” Bruens, Jr.

Family and friends will gather from 11 a.m. until time of service at 2 p.m. Monday, March 18, 2019 at Connelly Chapel Wagner Family Funerals, 202 North Broadway St., Cassopolis, with the Reverend Charlie Keller officiating.

Bruens will be laid to rest in Prospect Hill Cemetery in Cassopolis.

The family prefers contributions in Merle’s memory to Cass County Cancer Service, Post Office Box 676, Edwardsburg, Michigan 49112.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Connelly Chapel Wagner Family Funerals, Cassopolis. Please share a memory or a message online: wagnercares.com.