Walking On -- Darrel Leroy Mercier

Darrel Leroy Mercier

Sept. 23, 1929 – Sept. 22, 2017

Tribal Elder Darrel Leroy Mercier, a lifelong resident of Grand Ronde, Ore., walked on Friday, Sept. 22, within two miles of the residence where he was born.

Born Sept. 23, 1929, Darrel is the eldest son of Hubert Mercier and Martha Hudson Mercier, all members of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde. Darrell shared 51 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Ruth Ham Mercier, who preceded him in death in 2001.

Darrel and Ruth are survived by their children, Connie Lopez of Tucson, Ariz., Carmen Mercier, Mark Mercier, Margo Mercier, Lowell Mercier, Doug (Eric) Mercier, John Mercier and Barbara Branson, who all reside in Grand Ronde and Willamina.

Darrel also is survived by his siblings, Crystal Thomas, Lennis Mercier and Dennis Mercier of Grand Ronde. His brothers, Winston and Francis (Frank) Mercier, preceded him in death.

Darrel worked in the logging industry falling timber and as a log truck driver, mechanic, and bulldozer and loader operator. Darrel supported the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde’s Restoration effort and served multiple terms as a Tribal Council and Timber Committee member. He attended Mass throughout his life at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Grand Ronde.

Darrel loved his family. He was a deer/elk hunter, raised beef and enjoyed many campouts with family and friends for lake fishing. Darrel and Ruth traveled through much of the United States during their retirement. Darrel cherished and valued relationships he had with his in-laws, extended family and numerous friends.

A funeral service was held Thursday, Sept. 28, in the Grand Ronde Tribal gym. Private interment followed. To leave a message or memory, visit www.dallastribute.com.