Patrick J. Mera

Rockford- Patrick J. Mera, 91, of Rockford, died Monday, February 24, 2014 at SwedishAmerican hospital. Born December 16, 1922 in Rockford , the son of Joseph and Jenny (Tavermina) Mera. Patrick married the love of his life, June DeCarlo, on October 28, 1945. He was completely dedicated to June and his entire family throughout his life. A decorated Veteran of WWII serving proudly in the US Army, a true member of the Greatest Generation, he recently was a member of an Honor Flight. Patrick was in business with his brothers, Al and Carl , and sister, Ann at Mera's TV on Broadway for over 80 years.
Survived by his Children, Joanne (Jef) Heckinger and Gene (Paula) Mera; grandchildren, Anne (Dave) Kauchak, Patrick P.J. (Vivian) Heckinger, Kevin (Brooke) Heckinger, Adrian (Carin Scheinin) Heckinger, Christopher Mera, Dr. Alexander (Amanda) Mera, Peter Mera and Theresa (Jack) Nethery; great grandchildren, Grace, Hannah and Ian Cordes, Sawyer Heckinger, Hunter Mera and Connor Nethery; sister-in-law, Jacqueline DeCarlo; many nieces and nephews and cousins, including his special niece, Donna Goetz. Predeceased by his parents and siblings, Al, Carl and Joseph Mera, Mary Zinanni, Margaret Hendry, Ann Kurlinkus and Josephine Mera.
Funeral Mass 10:30 a.m. Friday, February 28, 2014 at Holy Family Catholic Church, 4401 Highcrest Road with Fr. David Beauvais officiating. Burial in Scandinavian Cemetery. Visitation from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, February 27, 2014 at Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, Mulford Chapel 1860 S. Mulford Rd. Visitation also from 9:30 a.m.to 10:15 a.m. Friday at the church.