John Frederick Mercer

MERCER, John Frederick "Fred" — 94, passed away peacefully April 4, 2010, in Arborstone Enhanced Care nursing home. Born in Halifax, June 12, 1915, he was a son of the late Ethel and John F. Mercer Sr. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who was loved by all. He worked for C.N. Rail until retirement as a locomotive engineer and he had a passion for trains. During his youth he played hockey (Gordie Howe style) with his brothers on the Fairview Aces and baseball, which turned into avidly watching the Toronto Blue Jays in his later years. He enjoyed both hunting and fishing. He and his wife, Evelyn, enjoyed their many trips to Florida and their summers at the cottage in Pictou. Everyone who spent time with Fred knew of his love for the railway and many hockey stories. Fred will be deeply missed by his family and friends. Fred is survived by his sons, Marvin, Halifax; John (Neena), Ottawa; Roger (Christina), Halifax; David (Carolyn), Enfield; brother Gordon, Halifax; and sisters, Mae (Shea) and Jane (McGrath), both of Halifax; nine grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren, and a great great-granddaughter. He was predeceased by his loving wife, Evelyn; sister, Doris (Hartlen), and brothers, Harold "Dick", and Robert "Bob" and his daughter-in-law, Catherine. Visitation will be held from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Thursday, April 8, in J.A. Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Dr., Halifax, where a funeral service will also take place on Friday, April 9th, at 10 a.m. in the chapel. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (C.N.I.B), Canadian Diabetes Association or a charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated. Fred was a member of the Masonic Lodge since 1956. He has been a long-standing member of the Lodge of St. Marks No. 38 and St. John's Lodge No. 2. Family would like to thank the staff at Arborstone Enhanced Care nursing home for their kindness and care. On-line condolences to the family may be made on the website at: www.jasnowfuneralhome.com