Mercedes Tovar

February 25, 1938 – November 3, 2025

Age 87 | Placerville, California

Mercedes “Marcie” Tovar, 87, passed away peacefully at her home in Placerville, California, surrounded by her family.

Born on February 25, 1938, in Beckley, West Virginia to Frank and Amalia Martinez, Marcie was proud of her Spanish heritage. At age four, her family moved to Sunnyvale, California and she began kindergarten without knowing a word of English. She later graduated from Fremont High School in 1956.

Marcie married Bob Tovar in 1956, and together they built a beautiful life filled with adventure. In the early years, Marcie worked full time while raising their two daughters—in a time when few women did. After moving to Pollock Pines in 1976, she devoted herself to creating a warm and welcoming home, one that became the center of countless memorable family gatherings.

Marcie and Bob were always on the move—traveling the U.S. by motorhome, crabbing in Coos Bay, and venturing abroad to China and Spain. Their hearts, however, always found their way to La Capilla, Mexico, where they spent nearly 25 years enjoying their second home and the dear friends they made there.

A talented cook, Marcie was famous for her Spanish dishes and for never letting anyone leave her table hungry. She was also known for her love of crafting, sharp card skills, and unmatched enthusiasm for shopping.

She is survived by her husband of 69 years, Bob Tovar; her daughters, Camille (Rusty) McDonald and Lorie (Rick) Kreiser; four grandchildren, Heidi (Greg) Sills, Tyler, Molly (Aaryn) Abbott, and Emily (Tayler) Stites; five great-grandchildren, Sophia, Winstyn, Finley, Rosey, and Henry; and cherished nieces and nephews; Denise Kruzel, Gary Utman and many more.

She was preceded in death by her younger brother; Frank Jr., and her two older sisters; Delores and Trinidad.

She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and family traditions that will live on through those she cherished most.

A ceremony to celebrate Marcie’s life will be held at a later date in Placerville.