John Albert Mercier

WALLINGFORD - John Mercier, 69, departed this life on January 7, 2022. He was the beloved husband of Linda (Sholes) Mercier and father to Michael Thomas Stiefel.

John was born in Middletown, CT on April 8, 1952 to [the late] Louis and Elsie (Reinkerdorff) Mercier. He was one of 10 children as their family grew up in East Hampton together. John graduated from East Hampton High School in 1969 and enjoyed being a part of their wrestling team – rightfully earning the nickname “Cannibal” during his time on the team.

John met the love of his life, Linda, while chatting together on the CB radio under the code names “Wildfire” and “Cannibal”. When they finally decided to meet in person, they never left each other’s’ side – knowing they were soulmates the moment they met. They were together for three years before getting married on May 14, 1978. Throughout their 43 years of marriage, Linda wrote several sweetheart notes in cards that John diligently kept by his bedside – mementos of their love and continuous connection to each other. But perhaps the greatest expression of love that Linda showed John, was her tolerance for him to continue to drive his John Deere tractor around the yard no matter how many times he dinged the house and garage. She knew riding it brought him immense joy.

Aside from his love for his actual tractor, John amassed an impressive John Deere memorabilia collection – proudly displayed in their home. He also greatly enjoyed working in their garden, taking care of their chickens, and looking after their beloved Cally Cat. Linda will forever cherish memories of her and John sitting in the garden together while their chickens flocked about them.

John also cherished his church family and was committed to his congregation at Liberty Community Church. He enjoyed attending Bible Study, as well as being a door greeter welcoming fellow parishioners. John was a proud and faithful Christian.

John is survived by his soulmate, Linda Mercier; son, Michael Thomas Stiefel (and wife Gilda); sisters Barbara Carlson and Anna Huey; sisters-in-law, Bette Adams, Mickey Taylor (and husband Edward), and Carol Ann Collins; grandsons, Michael Anthony and Alexander Thomas (and wife Mia) Stiefel; and many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, two brothers, and five sisters, whom have greeted him in his eternal rest.  

A Memorial service for John will be held on Saturday, January 22, 2022 at Liberty Community Church in North Haven. The family will receive family and friends there from 10 am to 11 am, directly followed by a service at 11 am. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hope Pregnancy Center of Cheshire, which John and Linda have supported over the years. The B.C. Bailey Funeral Home of Wallingford, Connecticut has been entrusted with the arrangements.

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