Generoso M. (Ret) TSGT Mercado

Gene is survived by his wife of almost 60 years, Hebe R. Mercado; his daughter & son-in-law, Drs. Linda Mercado Peterson & William Peterson, Jr. of Okemos, Michigan and his daughter and son-in-law, Dr. Janyna Mercado Couch & Mr. David Couch, Jr. of San Antonio, Texas; daughter-in-law, Ileana Mercado (deceased son's wife) and his extended family in Greenville, South Carolina, Puerto Rico, Idaho, Washington, and California. Gene is also survived by his grandchildren, Kelsey & Kailey Peterson of Okemos, Michigan; Andrew, Parker, Kristina, and David Couch of San Antonio, Texas; and his sons' Juan and Jose Mercado's children and grandchildren. Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Juan Mercado and Sabina Melendez-Mercado, and his two sons, Jose Luis Mercado and Juan Rafael Mercado. Gene was born in Santurce, Puerto Rico.

He attended Central High School in Puerto Rico and was part of the National Guard. He proudly joined the United States Air Force in 1956. His 20 years of service include a tour to Vietnam (1966-1967), numerous tours to Ramey AFB in Puerto Rico (his favorite), and arrived at Lackland AFB in 1971, retiring in 1976. His love for the USAF led to numerous accolades and awards in his profession in the Military Police Division. Upon retiring from the USAF, Gene worked as a supervisor for the United States Postal Services in San Antonio, Texas retiring in 1998. Gene ("Johnny, Dada, Papi") loved his family dearly and was always part of all celebrations. His love for life and people was endless, as he always assisted those in need with a smile on his face.

The family would like to thank the outstanding doctors, to include Dr. Harris, and the compassionate nursing staff at Baptist Memorial Hospital.

MEMORIAL MASS

TUESDAY

JANUARY 12, 2016

10:00 A.M.

IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH

617 S. SANTA ROSA

PROCESSION

FROM PORTER LORING

9:00 A.M.

WEDNESDAY

JANUARY 13, 2016

INURNMENT

9:30 A.M.

FORT SAM HOUSTON NATIONAL CEMETERY

In lieu of customary remembrances, the family requests memorial celebrations be directed to Wounded Warriors, 12562 Silicon Dr, Ste. 105, San Antonio, TX 78249.