Obituary of Robert James Mercier

Robert James Mercier – 1941-2021 Robert “Bob” James Mercier, 79, of Punta Gorda, Florida. It is with great sadness that the family announces his passing on January 12, 2021, with his family by his side after a brief, unexpected illness. He was born in Piscataway, N.J. June 8, 1941, to William and Rose Mercier. In his adult years, Bob and his wife Joanne, along with their 4 children lived in Branchburg, N.J., and Duxbury, MA. Upon his semi-retirement in 2004, Bob and Joanne moved to Punta Gorda, FL. Bob was a loving husband, father, son, grandfather, great grandfather and a friend to many. He and Joanne were ALWAYS holding hands – their lifelong love was evident to all through this simple loving gesture. He loved his family dearly, spent as much time with them as possible and raised them with so much love and respect. He was an avid fisherman and could often be found fishing out with family and friends on his boat, the “Jersey Devil”, in the never-ending pursuit of the ‘perfect spot’ or the ‘biggest fish’. He also had a love and passion for music, enjoyed playing keyboard and singing along with his family and friends. Bob was an accomplished and impressive businessman. He obtained his MBA while raising a young family and juggling two jobs; all which he achieved successfully. Over the course of his career, he had a keen entrepreneurial spirit that he continued right up until the day he fell ill. His work ethic was impeccable. Bob was a beacon of light to ALL he met. Bob and Joanne were often known as the ‘energizer bunnies’ as they NEVER stopped enjoying life. Bob’s influence and impact on every single person he met over his lifetime cannot be captured in this brief recount. Bob left a TRUE LEGACY. The family will be holding a “Celebration of Life” at a later date in 2021 (tbd). Survivors include his loving wife of 59 years, Joanne Mercier, along with their four children Bob Jr. and wife Christine of Middleboro, MA., Billy and wife Michele of El Cajon, CA., Michelle Mercier Ryan and Jill Mercier Cushing, both of Bradenton, FL. He also leaves behind 18 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, and many cousins, nieces, nephews and very close friends. Bob is predeceased by his parents, William and Rose, sister, Nancy Femrite and grandson, Evan Cushing. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to an animal rescue that both Bob and Joanne hold close to their hearts. This is a wonderful non-profit organization run by Karen Kroll; all donations will go directly to her many animals. www.aussieandme.org - click on “In Loving Memory of Bob Mercier”.