Clayton Dewey Meyer, 75, of Dorr, died late Saturday morning, Aug. 6, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Grand Rapids.
Clayton served in the U.S. Army. He could be simply described as, “a good dude.” He had an infectious gruff, dry sense of humor paired with a mechanical aptitude that he shared with those around him. Alongside stories upon stories of life lessons, he had learned humility to admit there were more to go. “Clayton lived a full life” (per his brother Dick).
As a master plumber, his career in commercial plumbing was spent at area schools and hospitals, as well as the past 30 plus years at Calvin College University, where he continued to work occasionally after retirement.
Clayton is survived by his four children, with his first wife, Donna Waayenberg; Chad Meyer and his children, Mariah and Colton; Jodi (Mark) Whitcomb and their children, Cody, Kailee (Matt) Reiffer, and Ethan; Jill Meyer; Nate (Jill) Meyer and their children, Logan, Crew, and Remy. Clayton married Reda Dodds on Aug. 12, 1999. Together, they enjoyed 23 years creating memories from many of the aforementioned, including Harley rides, golf cart rides with pets, time with friends and camping.
Also surviving Clayton are his stepsons, Derrick Rademaker, Aaron (Cassie) Rademaker; step-grandchildren, Elijah Rademaker, Isaiah Rademaker, Zeruiah Rademaker, Nevaah Rademaker, Hendrik Rademaker, Hazel Rademaker; brother and sister, Richard Meyer, Norma (Jack) Kerkstra; father-in-law, Emerald Dodds; extended brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law; many nieces and nephews.
Clayton was preceded in death by father, Dewey Meyer; mother, Dorothy Meyer; brother, Roger Meyer.
The family will greet visitors from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 10, at Stroo Funeral Home, 1095 68th St. SE, Grand Rapids. The service will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 11, at Cornerstone Church, 1675 84th St. SE, Caledonia, with a one-hour visitation prior from 10 to 11 a.m. Pastor Marcus Schmidt will officiate. Interment will be in Jones Cemetery.
Memorial contributions in honor of Clayton may be made to the American Cancer Society.
