Rocky Dean Mercer

Rocky Dean Mercer, 53, succumbed to the complications of cancer after a long courageous fight August 31, 2010 at the Cleveland Clinic. He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Claudia (nee Dusek); his three children, Brandon (Heather) of Mantua; Genevieve (Jeremy) of Vermilion, and Felicia of Vermilion; and grandsons Ethan and Aydenn. He is also survived by his mother, Karen Mercer of Byesville; a brother, Randy (Kim) of Byesville; a sister, Tonya (Larry) of Moundsville, WV and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, James Mercer, and a grandson, Jacob. Rocky worked at the Cleveland Clinic for 22 years as a Hemodialysis Technician, until the time he became ill. He regularly donated blood to the Red Cross and was registered as a Bone Marrow Donor. He served for 9 years on the Mantua/Shalersville Volunteer Fire Department. He was a member of Saint Mary's Church. He was born in West Virginia and graduated from Meadowbrook High School in Byesville, Ohio. He attended Walsh College. He received his paramedic training from Marymount Hospital in Garfield Hts, Ohio. He was a soccer coach for many years. He served as trustee for the Orchard Beach Association for several years. He enjoyed reading, playing games, swimming and canoeing. He could be frequently found at the local library. He enjoyed being in the company of his friends and family. He was always ready to volunteer his services at local functions. His labors of love remodeling his home will be enjoyed for years to come. Calling hours are on Thursday, Sept. 2, 2010 from 5 -9 p.m. at the Riddle Funeral Home, 5345 South Street, Vermilion. Prayers will be said at the funeral home Friday, Sept. 3, 2010 at 1:30 p.m. followed by a Funeral Mass at 2 p.m. St. Mary's Catholic Church, 731 Exchange Street, Vermilion. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Singing Angels, 3615 Euclid Ave. #4, Cleveland, Ohio 44115. Online condolences may be made at www.riddlefuneralhome.com.