David Jay Meyle, 63, a long time resident of Portage, Michigan, passed
away on Saturday, November 26th at 11:15 a.m. due to complications
from a bone marrow transplant at the Harper University Hospital in
Detroit, Michigan. He is survived by his parents, Melvin and Midge
Meyle of Portage; his wife of 25 years, Geri Marie (Wixson); 4 sons,
David T., wife Jill, grandson Nick, and step-granddaughter, Ashley
Steffy; Captain Marc T., wife Abby, and grandson Sean; and sons, Mitch
J., who is a 3rd year student at U of M, and Spencer K., who will be a
student at Washtenaw Community College in January 2006 in Ypsilanti,
MI. Also surviving are 3 sisters, Judy (Chuck) Moden of Lawrence, MI,
Connie (Mike) Lyons of South Haven, MI, and Jan (Doug) Murray of
Portage, MI, and his mother-in-law, Grandma Mary (Wixson), who lived
with David and Geri all their married lives. Many aunts, uncles,
nieces and nephews are among the surviving as well. David was born in
Kalamazoo on October 28th, 1942. He lived most of his life on West
Lake where, in time, he knew all the best fishing spots and was self
acclaimed as the best Bass fisherman around. He graduated from Portage
Central High School in 1960, where he wrestled on the PCHS wresting
team. Following his graduation, he attended Western Michigan
University and then joined the Air National Guard. After finishing his
duty with the Air National Guard, David worked as a tax assessor at
the Kalamazoo City Hall for 20 years.
He then became the tax assessor for both Schoolcraft and Prairie Ronde
Townships. His work at Schoolcraft Township spanned 10 years. He was
also a licensed real-estate broker for many years, and worked avidly
on the side to maintain his company, “David J. Meyle Real-Estate.” As
an active member in his community he will be remembered by most as
“Coach Meyle.” He coached his sons in soccer through the AYSO and
MISLE programs, and was a developer of the MISLE program. In
recognition of his aid with the development of the MISLE program,
field number 7 was named after him. He then coached high school men’s
soccer for 5 years at PCHS. David was also an involved member in his
church’s youth program, The Edge. In addition to his honorable
community activity, he was also a member of the Kalamazoo City Hall
golf team. At his request, there will be no formal visitation, but
rather a celebration of David’s life held on Thursday, December 1st at
5 p.m. at the Portage First United Methodist Church, 8740 S Westnedge
Ave., Portage, MI. Officiating will be Pastor Greg Wood. In lieu of
flowers, David had asked that donations be made instead so that his
memory can be carried on through helping others – a common theme
throughout his life.
Published in the Kalamazoo Gazette on 11/30/2005.