Merel L. Burgess, 60, of Elkhart, passed away unexpectedly Thursday, March 3, 2016 in Pierceton, Indiana.

Merel was born Dec. 19, 1955 in Gladwin, Michigan. On Nov. 11, 2011, he married Kathy L. (Penrose) Doland.

Kathy survives, along with his children, Carl Burgess of Elkhart and Mandie Gonzalez of Pottsville, Pennsylvania. Surviving as well are his stepchildren Eric (Pom) Doland of Goshen, Jason (Misty) Doland of Elkhart and Stanley Zebrowski of Mishawaka. Merel is also survived by his mother Florence Kennedy and his siblings Burgess Dell-Wilson of Arkansas, Randy Burgess of Florida and Larry Burgess of Alabama, along with a half-sister Dixie Prince of Michigan. Surviving as well are six grandchildren, Alexandria, Brandon, Dante, Rayna, Bryce and Bennett.

He was preceded in death by his father Alfred Carl Burgess and a son Mitchell Burgess.

Visitation will be held two hours prior to the 7 p.m. funeral service Tuesday, March 8, 2016 at Walley-Mills-Zimmerman Funeral Home in Elkhart.

Merel was employed for most of his working career in the recreational vehicle industry, spending many years at Dexter Axle, and later at Lippert Components. He was a VIP Member of the NHRA, and enjoyed drag racing immensely. He loved animals, loved to ride his motorcycle and travel with his wife, Kathy. His family and his grandchildren were his number one priority in his life.

Merel will be remembered as an honest and caring man, whose big heart and smile led him to make friends easily.

In his memory, donations may be made to Pet Refuge, or CAPS.

To leave an online condolence, please visit www.wmzfh.com.