Mrs. Merle Marie Braford, age 92, of Grand Rapids and formerly of Sand Lake, went to be with her Lord on Monday, January 30, 2012, after a long illness. She was born on April 25, 1919 in Grand Rapids, MI to Bert and Mary (Rysdorp) Gotfredsen and passed away at Clark Retirement Center in Grand Rapids. Merle is survived by her children, Dick and Jeanne Braford and Betty and Hal Clegg; grandchildren, Joseph Braford, Gail and Scott Walldorff, David Braford, Steven Braford, Robert and Mary Clegg, Bradlee and Margaret Clegg; great-grandchildren, Kyle Walldorff, Neil Walldorff, Kathryn Clegg, and Sean Clegg. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Braford, step-son, John Braford, and sisters, Alberdene VanHeest and Marguerite Lovett. Merle was a faithful member of Sand Lake United Methodist Church where she held many roles as Sunday school teacher, a member of the United Methodist Women’s group, soloist and choir member, Vacation Bible School teacher, and various other offices in the church. She was also the much loved librarian at the Sand Lake Library for 32 years. Merle was well-known through the community and loved by all who knew her. She will be missed for her ready smile and gentle ways. Her family wishes to thank the staff at Clark Retirement Center for their wonderful care during Merle’s extended stay. The service for Mrs. Braford will be Saturday at 11:30 a.m. at Sand Lake United Methodist Church with Pastor Darryl Miller officiating. Interment in Sand Lake Cemetery. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider Sand Lake United Methodist Church, 65 W. Maple St., Sand Lake, MI 49343 or Clark Retirement Center, 1557 Franklin St., Grand Rapids, MI 49506-3331. Relatives and friends may meet the family at the Pederson Funeral Home on Friday from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. and prior to the service at the church on Saturday. Arrangements by The Pederson Funeral Home, Rockford www.pedersonfuneralhome.com