On Friday October 16, 2020, Robert “Bob” A. Mercier, loving father of two children (Robert and Kimberly) and grandfather of six (Cole, Gabriella, Mikey, Lexi, RJ, Nikki), passed away at his home in Mesa, AZ at the age of 83. His passing is also preceded by the passing of his beloved wife Judy earlier this year.
Bob was born on October 20, 1956 in Fall River, MA to the late Alfred and Florentine (Pelissier) Mercier. On June 11, 1956, at the age of 19, Bob enlisted in the Army where he faithfully and honorably served for 20 years until his retirement from service on June 30, 1976. He was a proud member of The American Legion and (VFW) Veterans of Foreign Wars. During his career of service to his country, he received numerous commendations, and meritorious metals, badges, and ribbons. Bob was stationed overseas five time, twice Korea, twice in Vietnam, and once in Italy. He was also stationed at nine different locations while stateside. He was awarded the Bronze Star for duties performed during the Vietnam War. In April 1973, Bob earned his highest rank of Chief Warrant Officer 3 (CW3), which he would eventually retire with. He was also promoted to Senior Instructor for his technical specialty in communications and electronics. While serving, he earned a diploma from DeVry Institute of Technology in “Home Entertainment Electronic Systems”. This would play an instrumental role for the next 24 years following his retirement from the Army. Bob spent those first 10 years in the TV/VCR repair business, then went on to work as a maintenance and calibration technician for W.L. Gore, before finally retiring as a custom plating specialist.
Bob had several passions in life. He loved working with wood; there just wasn’t anything he could not make or build. He loved to travel, especially around the state of Arizona. He loved spending time with his family, camping, barbecuing, or just watching the grandkids. He enjoyed building models, doing jigsaw puzzles, and sometimes just having a good ole conversation with friends while sipping on his favorite beverage. However, his two biggest passions were playing shuffleboard and watching NASCAR races. He was such an avid NASCAR fan; there were very few things that could keep him from either watching it on TV or attending a local race. He was loyal Mark Martin, Jeff Gordon, and Hendrick Motorsports supporter.
Bob never met a stranger. In fact, he enjoyed meeting new people so much, he considered it a golden opportunity to make a lifelong friend. He cherished each and every one of those friendships. He prided himself on being generous with his time and helping others in anyway he possibly could. He was there for anyone who needed him. We honor Bob for the may sacrifices he made during the two decades of service he gave to his country. Bob was also a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather. Dad, we thank you for all your love and support over the years. You are a true hero. May you “Rest In Peace”, knowing how much you are lived and appreciated by all. You will be dearly missed.
A memorial service for Bob will be held November 6, 2020 at 10:00 at Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery, 7900 E. Main St., 85207.