Joseph Richard Mercier

Joseph Richard Mercier, 64, of Margate, FL passed away peacefully on April 30, 2020, at Vitas Community Life and Inpatient Center, Delray Beach, FL after a long battle with various health issues complicated by COVID-19.

Joe or “Gator” as he was fondly known by his friends and family, was born in Nashua, NH on June 27, 1955. He relocated to Deerfield Beach, FL in 1971. He attended Pompano Beach High School and moved to Margate in 1997. His love of the water and his natural mechanical abilities led him to a career in algae control, water management, and fountain design and fabrication. He was employed by Vertex Aquatic Systems in Pompano Beach, FL for 37 years. 

Joe’s hobbies were many and varied. He enjoyed deep-sea fishing, scuba diving, and camping. Joe’s culinary abilities led to many family gatherings to share the bounty of dolphin, tuna, and swordfish he caught. He had a passion for motorcycles, firearms, and weapons. His love of animals was evident and many pets were given sanctuary, protection, and comfort under his roof, lastly being his feline companions Shoogie and Jazzy. Joe was his own man. He lived his life on his terms, never compromising his beliefs in what was right and wrong. His quick wit and sarcastic sense of humor will be forever missed. 

Joe leaves behind his wife, Sandra Mercier, step-children, Amy Nicole Campo, Christopher Michael Campo, Katie Elizabeth Campo, daughters Wendy Sue Gomez and Holly Mercier McGrath, all of Broward and Palm Beach Counties FL, sister, Mary Paula Rich of Cayce, SC and several other family members, including grandchildren, in-laws, “out-laws”, nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends. 

The family would like to express their appreciation to Vitas Innovative Hospice of Boca Raton, FL, for the compassionate care they provided to Joe during his illnesses.