Walter Mercer
October 15th, 2020
On the morning of Oct 15, 2020, our beloved dad left this world to join our Mom in heaven. Predeceased by the love of his life, wife Beverley, sister Jeanne; brothers Jim and Fred, he is survived by his four children, Bill (Lisa), Janie (Terry), Laurie (Terry), Patti (Lanny), son-in-law Robin; 14 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; younger brother George, and many extended family members and friends, most notably his caregivers and Guardian Angels, Maria and Rosalie.
Walter was a highly accomplished man, meeting all his goals throughout his life. His early years began in Hope, BC, and then New Westminster, where he spent most of his childhood and early adulthood. As a young boy, he managed three paper routes, then went on to become a King Scout, and then leader of the Catholic Youth Organisation.
He joined the Royal Canadian Air Force when he was 19, and went on to earn his wings, something of which he was extremely proud. Two years later, he met his future wife at the New Westminster May Day Ball, and they spent the next 69 years together. After graduating from UBC and starting their family, Dad moved everyone to Corvallis, Oregon, where he pursued a degree in engineering. That done, the family moved back to Surrey, BC, to the property they had originally purchased and lived on. Dad chose the department of Highways to further his career as an engineer, moving throughout BC over the years and finally retiring as Regional Maintenance Engineer, (1R1).
Dad, you were born to lead. You were a man of integrity, compassion, courage and humility. You used these gifts wisely to encourage, inspire and mentor to many.
Admired and respected by his peers
Loved and cherished by his family
Adored by all his grandchildren
Such a great man!
Dad, you have no doubt earned your wings to heaven.
Due to COVID-19, a Celebration of Walter’s life will be held at a later late.
You are invited to leave a personal message of condolence for the family.
Messages:
The year, 1923 produced some amazing men, Walter, my father and Kirks father. They understood honour, self sacrifice and the importance of family. Your family has embodied these traits with the unbelievable care you gave Walter, these last years. We are sorry for your loss, happy for your many memories. Tonight we make a toast to Walter, a live well lived. In our thoughts Eileen & Kirk Makepeace
So very sorry to learn of Walter's passing. He certainly lived a long, full, vibrant, life. His strength will carry on in all of his family members. May he now "rest in peace." Love from Cheryl & Ferg
I was so saddened to learn of Uncle Wally's passing. I am comforted to know that he is now reconnected with his beloved, Beverley. They were both very special people and our family is not the same without them. I learned about the importance of family and love at all the wonderful family reunions and celebrations at Uncle Wally and Auntie Bev's beautiful family home. There are so many happy memories for me of those times together as "family". The loving example that Uncle Wally and Auntie Bev provided are what I always strive to emulate and carry forward with my family. My deepest condolences to my cousins Bill (Lisa), Janie (Terry), Laurie (Terry), Patti (Lanny), and to the grandchildren and great-grandchildren. A big hug to you all. Love Cousin Jill (Kelly)❤️
My heartfelt condolences to all my cousins and their families on the loss of your beloved father, grandfather and great-grandfather. I remember your dad to be a very gentle and loving man. As a child, I have a memory of travelling somewhere with my family, and Uncle Wally saying good bye to us. He kneeled down to me and handed me a dime asking me to call him when we arrived at our destination. With all my love, Barb
You do not know me but it was my pleasure to work in the same office as Walter in the Department of Highways in the '70's and I well remember the poem "High Flight" which was framed on his office wall. He was very proud of his service and I am sorry to hear of the loss of a man of professional and always good natured integrity.
I was very sorry to hear of Walt’s passing. I had the pleasure of working directly with Walt @ Hwys starting in 1972 when he was the Provincial Approving Officer. We had a great team & many good memories of those years working together. There was much comaraderie & rapport thanks to Walt’s great leadership. He was a wonderful mentor & I recall his insight,wisdom,positivity,love of life,good humour, honesty & integrity.I will always recall his dark piercing eyes which always seemed to have such a magical friendly sparkle. I will always be thankful for the wonderful opportunity of having worked & being mentored by Walt during those years of my life. Thanks Walt! Till we meet again. Howard Hunter.