Rory Mercer

Rory “Jr.” James Mercer, age 64, passed away on July 18th, 2023 in Phoenix, AZ.

Rory was born September 30th, 1958 in Devils Lake, ND to parents Irene (Hedin) and Roy Mercer. Rory attended school in Devils Lake and served in the U.S. Army as a young adult. He spent many years working as a CMC operator at Sioux Manufacturing, and also doing carpentry work for various people. Rory enjoyed working with his hands and was a skilled carpenter from building or restoring furniture to hanging drywall. Rory was a self-taught handyman and was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. 

Raised in the Devils Lake and Spirit Lake areas, Rory was an avid outdoorsman. He enjoyed spending time on the water, casting a line and waiting for the fish to bite. Additionally, he enjoyed many camping trips with his family and spent many summer weekends at Graham’s Island, swimming with his kids, nieces, and nephews, or visiting with friends around the campfire. During the colder months, Rory could be found cheering for (or cussing at) the Minnesota Vikings, or spending time with his loved ones. Rory spent many holidays watching football and playing cards with his family. He also spent many nights baking cookies for his loved ones, both near and far. Rory always had a smile and loved to joke around. He was always willing to help anyone in need. He loved his family with all he had. Rory was loved by so many and will be missed dearly. Fly high on Angel’s Wings Jr.

Rory is survived by his children Summer Henschel (Bismarck, ND), Jamie Mercer, Bonnie (Steve Cosgray) Mercer (Knoxville, TN), Michelle Mercer (Phoenix, AZ), Keith (Katy) Mudgett (Fargo, ND), Ron Mudgett (Canon Falls, MN), Joshua Mercer (Devils Lake, ND), Kacy (Nick) Hettwer (Devils Lake), and Emily Mudgett (Fargo); siblings Lorie (Jim) Steffan, Rose (Gary) Wilhelmi, Edith (Rick Lafloe) Steinhaus, Mark (Jody) Mercer, Julie Mercer, and Steve Mercer; many grandchildren, nieces and nephews. 

Rory was preceded in death by his parents Irene and Roy. 

Services for Rory will be held on Friday, September 1st, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. at Gilbertson Funeral Home in Devils Lake with a burial to follow at the Devils Lake Cemetery. Honorary Pallbearers will be all of Rory’s children and Steven Mercer, Mark Mercer, and Lori Miller.