SMSgt Bernard "Bernie" Roger Mercier

Bernard (Bernie) Mercier

April 28, 1931 — December 9, 2025
 

SMSgt Bernard "Bernie" Mercier, U.S. Air Force (Ret.), 94, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at his residence in Sierra Vista, Arizona.  Born in Cheboygan, Michigan, Bernie was the son of the late Roger J. and Cecile M. (Douglas) Mercier.

After enlisting in the U.S. Air Force at age 17, Bernie was stationed at Holloman AFB, NM, where he met his future wife of 60 years, Maria Carmel Mercier of Tularosa, who preceded him in death in 2014.  Bernie proudly served his country and had a distinguished military career (1949 – 1977), which included tours in Korea and Vietnam (Bronze Star).  Bernie distinguished himself on assignments in Los Angeles and Edwards AFB where he provided operational support for key Air Force research, development, and testing missions through the 1960s – ‘70s during “The Right Stuff” flight test era that spawned some of our nation’s finest technology and aircraft.

During his “working years,” Bernard was known for holding down as many as three jobs at a time.  His businesses included TV repair/sales, as well as a car rental business.  He retired from a second, full-time career as the Postmaster at the U.S. Post Office in Columbus, NJ.  Bernard inspired others to  public service, including three daughters and two grandsons who chose to serve in the military.

Bernie was known for his street smarts, sharp wit, can-do work ethic, colorful story-telling, and contagious laugh.  He believed in justice and fairness, and looked out for those who may have been struggling.  Bernie stood by his values and principles—when he thought his superiors were on the wrong track, he never shied away from letting them know with his trademark “I don’t know about that.”  He was always fiercely loyal to, supportive of, and compassionate toward, his family and his many, many life-time friends.

Bernard is survived by his loving companion, Irene Kowatch, and was the beloved father of eight children: Debbie, Rita, Terry, Mike, Mary Kay, Bob, Joan, and John Jon (deceased).  Bernard was also a proud grandfather to 19 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.  In the eyes of his grandchildren, Grandpa Mercier was an inspiration and could do anything—he was a consummate “fixer” around the house and knew more about cars and finance than any book could ever teach. 

Bernard’s ashes will be interred in the family columbarium at Our Lady of the Mountains Church, where he has been a devoted parishioner for nearly 30 years.  A funeral Mass with military honors will be held at the church (1425 E. Yaqui St, Sierra Vista, AZ 85650) on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at 11 a.m., followed by reception in the church hall. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider planting a tree or donating to Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church in memory of Bernard Roger Mercier.

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