Joseph A. Mercier, Jr.

Mr. Joseph A. Mercier, Jr., age 71, formerly of Florida and more recently of Canastota, NY, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, February 18, 2008. His passing occurred in the comfort of his daughter’s home in Frankfort with the support of his family. Born in Utica on April 20, 1936, Joseph was the son of the late Joseph, Sr. and Julia (Glod) Mercier. He also knew the love and guidance of his “special” mother, Frances. Raised and educated in Whitesboro, he was a graduate of Whitesboro High School. A veteran of the U.S. Air Force, he was stationed in Europe and was proud of his time in service. At one time, he was married to the former Doris Abbott. For many years he had lived in Florida but moved back to New York to be closer to his family. Joseph was currently employed at the Turning Stone Casino & Resort. He had a charismatic personality and a carefree attitude, but it was laced with a hard work ethic. His humorous renditions of his most treasured quotes will keep his loved ones smiling for years to come. He loved his family dearly and he had a special bond and relationship with each of his loved ones, especially his grandchildren. Among his leisure pursuits, he was a collector of Native American folklore, and enjoyed viewing films at the movie theater. As an avid football and baseball enthusiast, he supported the N.Y. Giants and the N.Y. Yankees. Joseph is survived by his daughters and son-in-law, Deborah A. Ricker of Frankfort, NY, and Pam Nashton-Miller and her husband David of W. Frankfort, NY; the mother of his children, Doris Curtis of Frankfort; his grandchildren, Samantha Cerini, Stephanie Nashton, Nicole Ricker, and Michael Ricker, all of Frankfort; and his mother, Frances Mercier of Florida. Survivors also include his sisters, Mary Ann Swenton of Saratoga Springs, Beverly Faulkner of FL, Shirley Matrassi of Whitesboro, and Linda Klausner of FL; his brother, Michael Mercier; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, aunts, and uncles. The family expresses heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Atul Butala, and Dr. Richard Chmielewski who collaboratively expressed kindness and compassion while treating Joseph, and the Syracuse Veterans Administration Medical Center, especially Dr. Leslie Howard. Visitation will be held Wednesday (today) from 5:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc. 932 South St., corner of Hammond. Ave. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial contributions in Joseph’s honor to St. Vincent's Comprehensive Cancer Center in efforts to research MDS (Myelodysplastic Syndrome). Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Joseph’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Wednesday evening at 7:00 at the funeral home immediately upon the conclusion of visitation with Rev. Abe Esper officiating. Interment will take place in Forest Hill Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Joseph A. Mercier, Jr.

April 20, 1936 - February 18, 2008