Laurence "Larry" Mercier

            Laurence "Larry" Eugene Mercier, formerly of Grand Rapids, MN, passed away on Saturday, June 27th, 2026, at Autumn Cottages in Alexandria, MN. He was 82 years old. A visitation will be held from 6:30 - 8:00 PM on Friday, July 10th, 2026, at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Cohasset, MN. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, July 11th, 2026, at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church with visitation one hour prior to the service. Burial will be held at Nashville Township Cemetery in Winnebago, MN at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Alzheimer's Disease Research (BrightFocus Foundation Program), Grand Rapids Food Shelf, or New Beginnings in Grand Rapids.

Laurence “Larry” Eugene Mercier was born on May 9, 1944, to Leo and Esther (Ronning) Mercier in Minneapolis, MN. In 1951, when Larry was just a young boy, the Mercier family moved to Grand Rapids, Minnesota. It was here that they purchased a resort on Pokegama Lake, a place filled with laughter, family, and future memories. Summers were spent running the resort in Grand Rapids, while winters found the family operating a bowling alley in Arlington, Minnesota. It was there that he met his future wife, Carol Fuller.

Larry attended Grand Rapids High School his junior and senior years, graduating in 1962. After high school, Larry entered the military and completed boot camp before receiving a medical discharge. He continued his academic journey at Adams State University in Alamosa, Colorado, then switched to St. Cloud State University, where he earned his teaching degree.

On June 21, 1969, Larry married Carol in Arlington, Minnesota. Their shared passion for education led them to accept teaching positions in Grand Rapids and they made their home on the very land where the Mercier family once managed the beloved resort on Pokegama Lake. This property would become Larry and Carol’s home for the next 50 years—a testament to their shared love for the community and the lake.

Larry devoted his career to the education and development of youth, teaching 8th and 9th grade English from 1969 to 2006. His teaching extended beyond the classroom, as he also taught driver’s education for many years. Larry was not only a dedicated educator, but also a talented vocalist, performing more than 30 years as a member of the Blandin Male Chorus. Colleagues and students alike appreciated his approachable nature and deep commitment to fostering a supportive learning environment.

Family was central to Larry’s life. Together with Carol, they raised three children: Jay, Bradley, and Rebecca. Larry’s children remember him as a fun-loving and comical father, always supportive of their adventures—especially the ones that involved making the most out of life on the lake. He was the quintessential “fun Grandpa,” always ready to make children laugh and take tradition to heart. Generous with his time and his resources, Larry was admired for his selflessness and genuine connection with young people.

A man of varied interests, Larry found great joy in puzzles, crossword challenges, and was an avid reader. He loved dogs and found joy in the companionship they provided. Larry cherished opportunities to gather with friends for dinner, whether hosting at home or exploring local restaurants. Together with Carol, Larry frequently traveled to Arizona to visit their son, daughter-in-law, and other relatives. They always made the most of their time spent with loved ones.

Larry’s lasting influence is evident in the strong bonds he built with family, friends, students, and community members. He was always present, generous of spirit, and steadfast in his values.

Larry Eugene Mercier passed away on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at Autumn Cottages in Alexandria, MN. He was 82 years old. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Carol; children, Jay (Deborah) Mercier, Bradley (Gloria) Mercier, and Rebecca (Trond) Knudegaard; grandchildren, Cole (Karissa), Kallan, Kobe, Kian (Kyra), Karis (Silas), and Kyrie; great-grandson, Everett; and many nieces and nephews. Larry is preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Esther Mercier; brothers, Leo (Marilyn) Mercier and Jerry (Ernestine) Mercier.

Livestreaming of Larry's Memorial Service will be available on the Facebook page of Peterson Funeral Home of Coleraine, MN. The link is below or it can be copied and pasted into your web.

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063831922279&sk=live_videos

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