Barbara A. Mercer, 79, of Curtice, Ohio, passed away with her family by her side on Sunday, August 3, 2014 at Bay Park Community Hospital. She was born in Toledo on April 24, 1935, to Emil and Victoria (Bires) Nelson and was a 1953 graduate of Clay High School. Babs worked as a cashier at Ondrus Hardware for over 26 years, a member of the CCL, enjoyed playing BUNCO and was an umpire for the Oregon Recreation Softball Leagues. She will be remembered fondly for her witty sense of humor, her ability to see the good in everyone, the wonderful pies and wedding cakes which Babs enjoyed decorating with her longtime friend, Donna Lou. Affectionately known as Mickey Mouse Grandma, she loved spending time with her family and friends especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Babs is survived by her loving husband of 59 years, Jim Mercer; daughters, Vickie Mercer; Shellie (Lenny) Stieben, Terrie Ondrus, Amie (Ivan) Myers and Julie (Neal) Chancey; foster daughter, Trish Kwapich along with many dear grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her children, Jimmie and Kristie Mercer; son-in-law, John Kirby; parents; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Don and Ruth Mercer; and brothers, Arland and Neal Nelson.
Family and friends may visit the Freck Funeral Chapel on Friday, August 8, 2014 from 2-9 p.m. where an evening service will begin at 7:00 p.m. Prayers will begin in the funeral home on Saturday at 10:15 a.m. followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. at St. Ignatius Catholic Church. Burial will follow at St. Ignatius Cemetery. The family wishes to thank Tammy Grosjean and the ICU nurses, Kevin, Mike, Chelsea and Linda for their love and care.