1919 – 2019
Putnam – Joseph Mercik, 100, of Grove St., passed away on Sunday, November 24, 2019 at Matulaitis Rehabilitation and Nursing Home surrounded by his family. He was the loving husband of Dolores (Marroquin) Mercik, the love of his life. They were married on August 21, 1948 in St. Mary Church of the Visitation. Born in Newmarket, NH, he was the son of the late John and Appolina (Grochmal) Mercik. He is predeceased by his daughter in 1993, the late Joy Kempain; as well as his sisters, Mary, Beatrice and Celia.
Joseph graduated from Putnam High School and from Ellis Tech as a machinist. He was a veteran of the United States Army serving during WWII. Upon his return from the war he married Dolores. He was co-owner of LaBonte & Mercik Refrigeration in Putnam. Joe was an ambitious and talented man who had many interests. His interests as a young caddy turned into a membership at Putnam Golf Course and became one of the original members of the Quinnatisset Country Club. He was a member of the Putnam Elks which he enjoyed for many years. He was an avid fisherman, golfer, coin collector, reader, made furniture and lamps as well as carved decoy ducks.
In addition to his wife Dolores, Joseph is survived by his daughter, Deborah M. Dunn and her husband Kevin Paulhus of Dudley, MA. The light of his life was his family, especially his grandchildren, Hollis (Kempain) Abram and her husband Adam, and Jordan Joseph Kempain and his fiancé Sarah Rickaby, Steve Kempain was Joys husband and he and his present wife Pam Kempain continue to be part of the family.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the exceptional staff at Matulaitis Nursing Home.
Funeral services are private and have been entrusted to the Gilman Funeral Home & Crematory, 104 Church St., Putnam, CT. For memorial guestbook visit www.GilmanAndValade.com.
Harvey and Jane Duffany
To Deb and Kevin: Duffy and I were very sad to read about your dad. He was such a gentleman and we both enjoyed chatting with him and your mom in the “restaurant” at Matulaitis. Losing a parent is so difficult no matter how old you are. Both you and Kevin will be in our prayers. Give your mother a kiss and big hug for us.
In Friendship, Jane and Harvey Duffany
Katie Neal
Love to you all. You’re in my thoughts and prayers. To all the memories on Grove Street!
Kathy and Bill Zamagni
Deb, we are so sorry to read of your Father’s death.
Our sincere sympathy.
Nelson King
Deb, my sincere sympathy. More than just neighbors with a back yard connection, we shared associations at the Elks and Quinnatisset. While he probably never shot “100” on the golf course, it was fitting that he reached that milestone in life
Jim and Donna Bart
Hi Deb and Kevin,
Sorry to hear about the passing of your dad Spike. I knew him to be a very good man and a fine golfer. He will certainly be missed.
Love ,
Jim and Donna Bartolomei
Katy Bousquet
Deb and family…..
I am so sorry you have to go through such a sad time. You have so many memories that will sustain you and put a smile on your face. He was so much a part of our community.
Love,
Katy
Sue Weiss-Gardner
Debbie and Kevin…I drove by your house on Grove Street last week and thought about when we were younger, much much younger. Your father worked hard and built a great business. He was a terrific father and you will miss him. You both have been model caregivers who truly wanted to be there with your him. It never seemed like a chore. Last year you told me how much you enjoyed their company. You have so many great memories that will comfort you through this very hard time. I’m thinking about you.
Brandon ONeill
My deepest deepest condolences. Deb and Kevin you are both in my heart always and especially during these times. It’s so rare today but so beautiful to see parents in their advanced stages of life, be taken care of the way that you and Kevin have. The unconditional love and caring that was there for your father and continues for your mother is truly amazing. All the blessings to you both.
Love
Brando and Kerry
Marge/Kevin Johnston
Dear Dolores, Deb, Kevin and Family,
We are so sorry to hear of your husband’s, father,’s grandfather’s passing. He was such a wonderful person. Kevin has such fond memories of him at Quinnatisset. We know you have many lovely memories. We wish you comfort and peace at this time. Love, Marge and Kevin