Obituary of Nelson Merce

Nelson Joseph Merce was born in Toledo, Ohio on November 30, 1918. He was one of ten children born from the union of the late Charles Merce and Meta (Hameister) Merce. Nelson was a graduate of Macomber High School in Toledo and honorably served in the United States Army. Nelson married the love of his life, the former Josephine Bowler on June 21, 1946 at the Holy Rosary Cathedral. From this union came the birth of one son: Thomas (Gail) Merce. Nelson prided himself on his military career and was a member of the Military Order of the Purple Heart Wyandotte Post 127, the Erie VFW Post 3925, and the American Legion Post 193. After the military, he supported his family driving truck for REA Express. Nelson was very easy going and made friends everywhere. He cherished his family and was quite the outdoorsman, enjoying camping, hunting and fishing. Nelson was a snow bird and traveled yearly to their home in Bonita Springs. In his quiet times, he loved to take care of his roses, feed the birds, and play bingo and cards. Nelson Joseph Merce, age 94 of Luna Pier passed away June 24, 2013 at Mercy Memorial Hospital. In addition to his parents his passing was preceded by his loving wife: Josephine Merce; four sisters: Mildred(Steve) Vanyo, Norma (John) Condron, Verna (John) Nichols, Florence (Richard) Meyer; and five brothers: Clarence (Marie) Merce, Marvin (Caroline) Merce, Melvin (Edith) Merce, Robert Merce and Carl Merce. To cherish his memory, he leaves his son: Thomas (Gail) Merce; four grandchildren: Bernice (Kelly) Masztak, John (Gayle) Cavins, Michelle Bolesta, and Katina (Matt) St Clair; six great grandchildren: Jason, Serena, Devyn, Logan, Dacota, and Allison; one great-great grandchild: Giana; and two God children: Kendra and Kristen. Friends may gather from 2:00-8:00pm, Sunday, June 30, 2013 at Merkle Funeral Service, 9156 Summit Street (734) 848-5185. Military Honors will take place at 6:30pm followed by a Rosary also at Merkle's. Nelson will Lie in State from 9:00am until A Mass of the Resurrection at 10:00am, Monday, July 1, 2013 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 2214 Manhattan Street in Erie. Father Brian Hurley of St. Anthony Church officiating. Burial will follow at 1:30pm at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, MI. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, share a photo, or make a donation by visiting www.merklefs.com and then selecting the Online Tributes page.