Obituary of Peter Karver Mercer

Peter Karver Mercer, 75, of State College, died Thursday, April 9, 2015 at Mt. Nittany Medical Center. Born September 5, 1939 in Pottstown, PA he was the son of the late Albert M. and Ethel Karver Mercer. He married Carol Rae Wasley, on August 5, 1961, who preceded him in death in November 2006. He is survived by two children, Kathy M. Kalbach and husband, John, of State College and Albert W. Mercer and wife, Jacqueline, of Holland, OH.; four grandchildren, Elizabeth Kalbach, Kenneth Kalbach, Zachary Mercer, and Ashley Mercer; and siblings, M. Susan Johns and husband, David, of Shillington, Judith Sheridan and husband, Wesley, of Chalfont, Elaine Stein and husband, Robert of Oley, and Mary Graham and husband, Walter, of Webster, NY. In addition to his parents and wife, Peter was preceded in death by his brother Albert M. Mercer Jr. Peter was a graduate of Boyertown Area High School and Wyomissing Polytechnic Institute. Most of his working career was spent in the employ of the family business, A.W. Mercer, Inc. sheet metal fabricators. He last served as president of the company. As an active Penn State football fan, for many years his family would be found in the Shields’ parking lot at Penn State home games. Pete also enjoyed photography, astronomy, flying, building electronics and camping with his family. After Peter and Carol moved to State College, Peter was an active member in the choir and bell choir at Grace Lutheran Church. Following Peter’s stroke in 2005, he continued to attend Church on a weekly basis. Visitation will be 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 25, 2015 at Grace Lutheran Church, 205 S Garner St, State College. His memorial service will follow at 12:00 p.m. at the Church with the Reverend P. Stevens Lynn officiating. Interment will be private. Memorial contributions may be directed to Grace Lutheran Church, 205 S Garner St, State College, PA 16801. Arrangements are under the care of Koch Funeral Home, State College. Online condolences and signing of the guest book may be entered at www.kochfuneralhome.com.