Manuel "Manny" Jesus Mercado

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Manny Mercado, aged 77. Manny passed away comfortably at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing, MI with his son and daughter at his side.

Manny was born in San Germán, Puerto Rico in 1945, son of Faustina Mercado and Claudio Mercado. He and his family moved to New York, New York when Manny was a toddler. Manny had a rich childhood heavily influenced by his experiences growing up in Spanish Harlem. He fondly recalled mischievous adventures with his three siblings. He was drawn to art from his childhood and took advantage of the rich artistic and cultural milieu of the city, sometimes attempting to hide in museums at closing time so he could remain after hours. In 1963 he joined the US Marine Corps. He achieved the rank of corporal and was honorably discharged in 1969. While enlisted, he received a National Defence Service Medal, a Vietnam Campaign Medal, a Vietnam Service Medal, Air Medal, and a Combat Air Crewman Insignia, and received commendations for good conduct. In the 1970s, he moved from New York City to East Lansing, Michigan. In East Lansing, he had a successful career as a photographer and painter. He created paintings and set designing for several local businesses. He also opened his own photography studio, Manny Mercado Studios. Friends and family will remember Manny for his generous spirit, his quirky humor, his artistic talents, and his unique ability to find and appreciate the beauty within the ordinary. He was a loving father, grandfather, uncle, friend, and neighbor.

Manuel is survived by his sister Lourdes Mercado; his former spouses Zenaida Duran and Veronica McDonald; his son, Richard Mercado and his wife Anita; his daughter Kahli Zietlow and her husband Michael; his son Michael McDonald and wife Lauren; his step-son Jeff Lapinski; his nieces Tasha Taylor, Raquel Sharma, and Vanessa Ortiz; his nephew Lorenzo Mercado; his granddaughter Madeline; and his grandsons Carter and Asher (who knew him as “Bahbah”). He is predeceased by his brothers Fredwino Mercado and Harlan Mercado. There will be a memorial service at the East Lansing Hannah Community Center (819 Abbot Road, East Lansing, Michigan) on Friday, February 3rd from 11 am through 1 pm. The service will be open-house style and light refreshments will be provided.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Manny’s name to one of the

following organizations:

1. Capital Area District Libraries (https://www.cadl.org/about/get-involved/donate)

2. Habitat for Humanity (https://www.habitat.org/)