Robert (Bobby) Lorne MacKinnon Mercer
Passed on: November 14th, 2008
1927-2008 Glace Bay It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Robert (Bobby) Lorne MacKinnon Mercer at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital on Friday, Nov. 14, 2008, with his loving family by his side. Born in Glace Bay, N.S., he was the son of the late James and Margaret (MacKinnon) Mercer. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Francis (Rideout); daughters, Gail (Maurice) Gouthro, Roberta (Steve) Melnick, both of Glace Bay; sons, Johnny (Barb), Huntington, and Kenny, Howie Centre; granddaughters, Amy (Rob) Mahoney, Annette Gouthro, Adele (Joel MacDonald) Gouthro; grandsons, Stephen and Benjamin Melnick and Chris Woodford; sister, Mora Patterson, Dartmouth; brother, Ian (Mary) Mercer, Glace Bay; nieces, Debbie and Shelayne; nephews, J.D. and Lloyd; and sister-in-law, Sarah MacLean. Besides his parents he was predeceased by brother, Sheldon. Employed at Sydney Steel Corporation in various departments. He retired in 1989 after 45 years of service. Bobby also served as a board member of Steel Centre Credit Union for 30 years, 20 years of which he served as secretary. Bobby was an active member of Knox United Church where he served as an Elder for over 45 years and superintendent of Knox Sunday School for 25 years. In his early years he played hockey and rugby; a devoted sports fan he was an avid supporter of the Toronto Maple Leafs. For many years he was a member of the Laymen's Bowling League at Knox Lanes. Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at Knox United Church, Tuesday, Nov. 18 at 11 a.m. with Rev. John Finlayson officiating, followed by a reception in the church Memorial Room. A private family burial will follow in Greenwood Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to Patten Funeral Home, 71 Union St., Glace Bay, 849-7520. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Knox United Church Memorial Fund or the Heart and Stroke foundation. Online condolences may be sent to patten@seaside.ns.ca or at www.mem.com.
