Robert E Mercier

Robert Eugene Mercier, 89, of Springfield, passed away July 13, 2023 after a long, full life.  Bob was born May 10, 1934 in Mt Pulaski, Illinois, the son of Walter Mercier and Anna Kruger Mercier.  The family’s roots were in the farming communities of central Illinois and he helped his dad with the farm work for most of his youth.  The family settled in Springfield and he attended Lanphier High School, although he didn’t care too much for school.  He joined the United States Air Force during the Korean War.  His specialty was Air Policeman.  He had hoped to learn a trade beside carrying a rifle.  Upon his return, he connected with a local business-man, who helped him start his first service station at 1st and North Grand.  He managed stations from Litchfield to Elkhart and for a variety of oil companies.  Bob’s Shell on Clearlake was perhaps the most memorable location.  He received countless awards from Shell for his service and dedication.  He found purpose in work, and he worked until the last years of his life.  He enjoyed the friendships he made with the guys from work. 

Outside of work, he enjoyed traveling, especially to Florida, as he loved being out in the sun.  He treasured his trips to Washington which unfortunately is not known for its sunshine.  He loved driving as well as riding bikes.  He first “bike” was a Cushman scooter.  No one had money back in those days, so he had to work hard for everything he had.  His first paying job was delivering papers.  He was a daily reader of the paper  including the obituaries. 

He is survived by his two children Timothy Robert Mercier of Springfield, Illinois; and Lou Ann Mercier of Olympia, Washington; his sister Linda Mercier Papenburg of Streator, Illinois; as well four Grandchildren, six Great-Grandchildren, Nieces and Nephews.

He worked hard and played hard. He had a special sense of humor and he appreciated a good joke.  He never forgot his humble beginnings.  Therefore, he always had a soft spot for the underdog so in lieu of donations extend that money to someone in need; he always did. 

He will be buried at Camp Butler National Cemetery where military honors will be conducted by the Department of Defense and Inter-Veterans Burial Detail of Sangamon County; these are private services. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Robert E Mercier, please visit our floral store.