Vincent J. Meyer, age 80 of Shepherd, Michigan, passed away with his daughters at his side on Monday, June 1st at Masonic Pathways in Alma. He was born July 19th, 1945, at the family home in St. Louis, Michigan to Richard and Matilda (Moeggenborg) Meyer.
Vince grew up on the family’s dairy farm where he developed the strong work ethic, resilience, and practical wisdom that would define his life. He attended a one room schoolhouse for several years before graduating from Shepherd High School in 1964 where he met his future wife, Linda Recker. The two married and built a life together, raising their three daughters.
From 1965 to 1971, Vince served in the Army National Guard and was deployed during the Detroit Riots. Early in his career, he worked at Pepsi Cola, but soon after, took over his father-in-law’s farm in 1974 on Summerton Road. Vince was a dependable and humble man whose dedication and perseverance were evident in everything he put into his farm. He raised cattle and pigs as well as a variety of field crops. In the mid 1980s, Vince and Linda became co-owners in the local Village Market grocery store with Vince’s brother Larry, his wife Elaine, cousin Art, and his wife Ruthann. Vince was also a member of the Jaycees, generously contributing his time and energy to community events, especially during the annual Maple Syrup Festival.
Fishing, hunting, watching sports, and attending the activities of his children and grandchildren were among Vince’s greatest joys. He was a devoted Detroit Tigers fan who faithfully listened to games on the radio long before cable television arrived. Over the years, he looked forward to fishing trips to St. Joe Island, Canada, and Blue Lake in Mecosta at the family cottage. Some of Vince’s fondest times were spent with his brothers and many cousins while fishing, hunting, playing cards or golf, and attending get-togethers filled with laughter, stories and a beer or two. He loved being a Meyer and treasured the deep family connections that enriched his life. In his later years, he especially enjoyed time spent with his brother, Larry, sharing lunch and drives in the country. Visits with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought joy and a smile to his face, and he was proud of his daughters and the lives they built. His beloved cats, Minnie and Flash, also provided comfort and companionship following the passing of his wife, Linda, in 2022.
Above all else, Vince enjoyed the moments with those around him. He was a warm, fun-loving, and true people person. Someone who would start a conversation with strangers. Whether helping a neighbor, lending a hand, or offering his time, Vince would support anyone in need and put others before himself. He will be dearly missed.
Vince was a devoted father to his three daughters, Chris (Ed) Casper, Anne (Dan) McKinney, and Katie (Brian) Martin. He was also a proud grandfather to 8 grandchildren: Jory (Becca) Casper, Kortney (Devon) VanBonn, Nathen (Nikole) Casper, Avery McKinney, Ella McKinney, Sophie Martin, Macy Martin, Cooper Martin, and 4 great-grandchildren: Nolan Casper, Daxton VanBonn, Vinnie Casper, and Norah Casper. Vince is also survived by his brothers, Larry (Elaine) Meyer and Gene (Mary) Meyer; sister, Dorthy Salisbury, and brother-in-law, Bob Martin.
Vince was preceded in death by his loving wife, Linda; sister, Ange (Bob) Martin; brother-in-law, Jim (Dorothy) Salisbury, and parents, Richard and Matilda Meyer.
The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to the staff at Masonic Pathways in Alma for the care and dignity provided to Vince during his residency. A special thank you to Heartland Hospice for their unwavering support, comfort, and specialized care during his final days. They all provided tremendous love and compassion to him and his family.
Services for Vince will be Friday, June 12 at 11 A.M. at St. Vincent de Paul Church in Shepherd. There will also be a visitation on Thursday, June 11 at St. Vincent de Paul from 4 to 8 P.M. with a vigil service at 7 P.M.
We invite friends and family to make a donation to the Isabella County Humane Animal Treatment Society (HATS) in honor of Vince at https://www.hatsweb.org/.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Berry Funeral Home of Shepherd.
