George R. Mercer

George R. Mercer, 69 years of age, of Beatrice passed away unexpectedly at Bryan Medical Center West in Lincoln on May 22, 2025. He was born October 2, 1955 in Spokane, Washington to Raymond and Grace Mercer. He graduated from high school in Spokane in 1973. George served his country in the United States Navy from 1973-1977, was a beacon of adventurous spirit, boundless compassion, and unwavering support to all who knew him. His generosity was evident not only in his interactions with his loved ones but also in his commitment to his community. George married the love of his life, Norma Genzler on May 12, 1979.
George worked as the Culligan Man and at a couple of factories while living in California. He worked American Tool in DeWitt, was a caregiver at several places in Beatrice, and was a para at Beatrice Public School.
George made Beatrice, Nebraska his home for 33 years, and in that time, he left a mark that will not be forgotten. He was a devoted foster parent for the State of Nebraska, generously opening his heart and home to over 30 children in need. His love for the outdoors was infectious, and he shared his passion for camping. In his leisure time, you could find George cheering on Nebraska football and Kansas City Chiefs or Royals, or playing softball. He was a blood donor to the American Red Cross and was active in various organizations, including the Nebraska Blind Association Board of Directors, Nebraska Camping Association, and Parents Encouraging Parents. An active member of Christ Community Church, George participated in play productions and was a member of the Men's and Bible Study groups.
Surviving George is his beloved wife, Norma Mercer, and their children; Jennifer (Chris) Washburn of Plymouth, Brandin (Randa Grof) Mercer of Lincoln, Mindy Bursovsky of Beatrice, Cathy (David) Domino of San Antonio, David Mercer and JayQuan Cook of Beatrice, and Luke (April) Kling of Fairbury, and his beloved grandchildren Skye, Cael and Catrina Washburn, Jack & Warren Bursovsky, Chase Stevens, and Jaxon Domino. He also leaves behind his sister, Donna (Bill) Arnold, and several nieces, nephews and cousins including Joy Todd from Texas. George was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Grace (Livesly) Mercer, his stepmother, Polly Mercer, and his son, Zachary Mercer.
George's life will be celebrated on Saturday, 21 Jun 2025, at Christ Community Church, 2727 Lincoln Street, Beatrice, Nebraska, with a Family Prayer Service beginning at 10:45 AM and a Celebration Of Life Service at 11:00 AM. Military Honors will be provided by the United States Navy. A memorial has been established to the family's choice for future designation with the funeral home in charge.
We invite all who knew and loved George to share their memories and upload photos to his memorial page, keeping his adventurous spirit, compassionate heart, and generous nature alive in our hearts forever. You may also watch his video tribute at www.ghchapel.com. Remember George not just for the life he lived, but for the lives he touched and the immense love he shared.
These services have been entrusted to the Griffiths-Hovendick Chapel in Beatrice.
