It is with deep emotion that we announce the peaceful passing of Catherine Anne Mercer at the age of 80 after a long brave battle with Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD).
She is survived by her beloved husband John Karl Mercer; her children Thomas Helmlinger, Jennifer Woods (spouse Carol Blaauwbroek), and Ann Elizabeth Racine; her grandchildren Micah Woods and Dawson Racine; her brothers George Blatchford and Richard Blatchford; her beloved dog Bella Rose, and many other treasured family and friends.
Born in Trenton, New Jersey, USA, Catherine followed John Karl to Canada and was a proud military wife. While working and raising her cherished three children, she loved camping, cooking, crafts and being a lifelong learner. She is known for her kindness, generosity, joyful spirit and unconditional love and support. She was a conqueror and a warrior of love.
Friends and family are invited to join us at Beechwood Funeral, Cemetery and Cremation Services, 280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa, on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 at 1 p.m. for a Celebration of Life, followed by a reception. Catherine wished that this be a joyous occasion, and asked that we wear something that makes us happy. Donations in lieu of gifts may be made to the PKD Foundation of Canada.
Tomorrow we celebrate Cathy’s life and I pray all her family and friends find comfort in all their good memories. Base life was made so much easier with the Mercer family as our neighbours. I am so blessed to have had Cathy as a military Ma… friend for life. Missed but not forgotten.