Thomas A. Merrill Jr.

T.J was born on Dec. 17, 1971 - on his mother’s birthday. He passed away on January 18, 2024 at his loved home in the country in Eau Claire, MI very unexpectedly from natural causes.

T.J. was born to his Papa Thomas A. Merrill Sr. and mama Jean-Shari Merrill whom he loved so dearly. He was a very loving and caring person, that would rather give than receive.

T.J. was a pure outdoorsman who was very well known for his pro fishing that started at a very early age. T.J. also loved deer hunting with his dad and best buddy Franky McCain. T.J. was a member of many national fishing organizations where he earned many master awards. T.J. achieved the prestigious Journeyman status in the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America. He graduated from St. Joseph High school in 1990.

T.J. would not say “Bye” at the end of a phone call – he would say “later” or “see ya.”

Per T.J.’s wishes, there is no barriers. He always said, come see me now, not when I’m dead. Cremation has taken place. There will be no services at this time.

Please feel free to share a memory with the family online at www.BowermanFuneral.com.

Our family chain is Not broken, but rather stretched out, and nothing will be the same. But God calls us one by one. Then our chains will be strong again.

               Tommy

God saw he was getting tired

and a cure was not to be,

so he put his arms around him

and whispered “Come with me”

with tearful eyes we watched him fade away.

Although we loved him dearly

we could not make him stay,

a golden heart stopped beating,

hard working hands to rest,

God broke our hearts to prove to us,

He only takes the best.

               Gone Fishing

I've finished life's chores assigned to me,

So put me on a boat headed out to sea.

Please send along my fishing pole

For I've been invited to the fishin' hole.

Where every day is a day to fish,

To fill your heart with every wish.

Don't worry, or feel sad for me,

I'm fishin' with the Master of the sea.

We will miss each other for awhile,

But you will come and bring your smile.

That won't be long you will see,

Till we're together you and me.

To all of those that think of me,

Be happy as I go out to sea.

If others wonder why I'm missin'

Just tell 'em I've gone fishin'