Joseph Mercieca

Joe was born in Gozo, Malta on May 19, 1934 to Anthony and Carmela Mercieca. He was the beloved husband of Lina for 64 years. He was the loving father of Marian (Nick) Papp, Paul (Karin’) Mercieca, and Joseph (Karen) Mercieca. He was the cherished grandfather of Nola, Faith, Morgan, Jacob, Anthony, Maria and loving great-grandfather of Cameron, Luna, Phoebe, Zeke, and Kai.

Joe was the dear brother of Rena (Jack) Reeves, Ben (Judy) Mercieca, Frank (Alice) Mercieca, Jane (Sam) Gatt, Lina (Joseph) Borg, Fred (Sandy) Mercieca and the caring brother-in-law of Marie (Charlie) Bondin, Hilda (George) Attard, and Joseph (Celine) Micallef. He is survived by many nieces and nephews.

Joe came to America when he was 18 years old accompanied by only his younger sister Lina. He quickly found work at a number of different places before entering the U.S. Army 1957. He was honorably discharged and started his 26 year long career with General Motors.

Joe was truly a “Jack of all Trades”, there was very little that he couldn’t accomplish when he set his mind to it. From building homes to restoring automobiles, there wasn’t anything he wouldn’t tackle. He always took the time to teach all experiences to his kids, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Joe truly had a heart of gold, with an infectious smile and always made friends wherever he went. His home was everyone’s home, filled with love and great memories. Later in his life, he and Lina retired and moved to Florida for 23 years filled with new friends, dancing, fishing and was always proud of making his awesome bread.

Later in life, Joe was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, which is a cruel illness that took away all that he loved and enjoyed. His family stayed by his side until his last breath. In the words from an old Beatle song…. “And in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make” That being said, Joe left this world with more love than can be imagined. Let us all raise a glass and honor the great man, Joe Mercieca.

The family thanks the staff of Fountain Bleu and all the wonderful caregivers who took such great care of Joe over the past two years.

In lieu of flowers, please make any donations to The Kirk Gibson Foundation for Parkinson’s, (www.kirkgibsonfoundation.org).

Family & friends may visit from 4:00 until 8:00 p.m. (with a Rosary recitation at 7:00 p.m.) on Friday, October 23, 2020 at Harry J. Will Funeral Home, 37000 Six Mile Rd, Livonia, Michigan 48152. (734) 591-3700. Visitation continues from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the Mass of the Resurrection at 10:00 a.m. at St. Colette Catholic Church, 17600 Newburgh Road, Livonia, Michigan 48152. Procession to St. Hedwig Cemetery immediately following Mass.