Barry John Mercer, born April 18, 1953 in Twillingate, Newfoundland, died on August 11th at Health Sciences North, Sudbury after a brief struggle with cancer. Barry was a CBC Radio broadcaster for over 35 years during which time he loved hearing and retelling the stories of Northern Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador. In retirement he enjoyed work as a Standardized Patient at the Northern Ontario School of Medicine and play at Tai Chi, photography, Amateur Radio, drone flight, all things outdoors, and grandparenting. His stories in retirement began with, “Once upon a time...” Barry is survived by his wife, Lorraine, sons, Zachary and Benjamin, their wives’ Hitomi and Chantal, and three grandchildren, Silas, Emma, and Tasha. His family of origin include brothers Gordon Mercer (Toronto), Frank Mercer (Thunder Bay), sister Diane Foley (Newfoundland), and his parents (predeceased) Frank and Ada Mercer of Bay Roberts, NL. Family, Friends, and Fans are invited to a Celebration of Life honouring Barry Mercer Saturday, September 7th, 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. at Huntington University, Sudbury, ON Light refreshments will be served after the Memorial Celebration. There is limited parking available in Huntington’s lower parking lot. Handicapped accessible parking is available at Huntington’s upper parking lot. You are invited to make a memorial donation to the Maison McCulloch Hospice, 1028 S. Bay Road, Sudbury, ON P3E 6J7
Enjoyed his contributions to the CBC and that unmistakable voice that captured your attention! So saddened to hear he is gone too soon. Condolences to all who have the honour to have known him so well and now living with his loss. Like others, he kept me a fan of the CBC.
Yvonne St-Denis,
CBC listener, Sudbury
August 27, 2019
So very sad for Barry Mercer’s family and the CBC family. He was a lover of all things radio, Westfalia, solstice, Newfoundland and Labrador, hikes. He was a big dude but was a welcoming champion of new journalists and full of heart. And then there was that voice. Rest in peace Bear. Thinking of the Mercer family this week and in the weeks to come.
August 24, 2019
So very sorry and heartbroken to hear of Barry’s passing. We had been friends since our days at MUN. I shall miss his travelogue postings and stunning photographs. He often spoke about his family and his precious grandchildren. He never wasted a moment of his time on this planet. Sending sincere condolences to his family and friends during this most difficult time. Fly high, BJ. You will be missed, my friend.
August 19, 2019
To: Lorraine, Zac, Ben and families : We were so sorry to hear about Barry. Think of you guys often and my visit to Sudbury many years ago. Barry always had and could tell a great story or two especially about NL and Labrador. Wish we were closer but as with most of the Mercer clan we are scattered across this and other countries. We are thinking of you guys and send our deepest sympathies to you all. Love Brian & Marilyn
August 15, 2019
To all the Mercer Family.
Please accept our condolences at this very sad time. Barry had been a friend since the early 70’s. His easy peaceful manner will be missed very much!
Tony & Debbie Greene
Valley, Nova Scotia
August 15, 2019