Milton “Bud” Mercer
Milton “Bud” Thorp Mercer, 71, of Prosser, left us much too soon, passing away peacefully Wednesday night, Aug. 11, 2010, at his home surrounded by his loving family.
He was born in Yakima, on Oct. 5, 1938, to Milton “Milt Sr.”and Carma (Sharp) Mercer. Bud and his wife, Patsy, lived in Prosser where he was a pioneer and leader in the irrigated agricultural industry. Many in the community enjoyed listening to Bud and Patsy play guitar and fiddle music.
Bud’s leadership and vision created countless opportunities for family, friends and employees. He had a tireless work ethic and strove to ensure his family was instilled with that same motivation; from rounding up cattle to hoeing sugar beets or spending the weekends ensuring the vegetable packing line was ready for Monday morning. He always led by example displaying honesty, self responsibility and personal accountability. His zest for life, wit and humor brought much enjoyment to family, friends and colleagues.
Bud modeled the ethics he learned from his father Milt, and grandfathers Willis Mercer and Austin Sharp who were pioneers in the Prosser area. All three were known as men of their word; and like Bud, both Willis and Milt were well respected civic and industry leaders. Bud was given many awards through the years, including Prosser Citizen of the Year in 2007.
The Mercer family founded Mercer Ranches, Inc. in 1968. Bud eventually became the sole owner and focused primarily on row crops. He was always interested in new opportunities and in developing the Alderdale area where the farm is located. Bud was a leader in the agricultural business where he made valuable contributions and inspired others. He invested his time, effort and resources to support people, ideas and opportunities he believed would make a difference.
Bud is survived by the family he loved so much: his devoted wife, Patsy; children, Julie Mercer of Seattle; Robert and Brenda Mercer of Richland; Lisa and Stan Cramer of Post Falls; Idaho; Willis and Piper Mercer of Richland; and Mark and Laura Buckley of Federal Way. Grandchildren include Jessica Gilmour; Jennifer and Adam Wing; Michelle Christensen; April, Reagan, Thomas, Rylee and Mallory Mercer; Sarah Eddy; Caitlin and Adam Prince; Abby Cramer; Rhett, Coley and Jantz Levin; and three great-grandchildren, Gage, Ryker and Ava Mae. Also surviving are brothers, Don and Linda Mercer and Rick and Mary Ann Mercer all of Prosser; his mother-in-law, Lulu McDowell of Lewiston, Idaho; brother-in-law, Jim and Ellen McDowell of Menifee, Calif.; sister-in-law, Georgene and Joe Borba of Tigard, Ore., as well as numerous beloved nieces and nephews. Bud will be missed by Lu, his faithful Boston terrier and lead vocalist; his family and many dear friends. Bud was preceded in death by parents Milt Sr.and Carma and daughter Caren Andreasen
A life celebration will be held Saturday, Aug. 21 at 10 a.m. at Mercer Meadows, on the Mercer Canyon’s farm, 495 Alderdale Road, with a reception to follow at Mercer Estates Winery in Prosser.
The family would value “Bud” stories that may be sent to mercerdesigns@comcast.net or written copies may be brought to the service or given to family members in person. Memorial contributions can be made to the Walter Clore Wine and Culinary Center or WSU Agricultural Center and may be sent c/o Prosser Funeral Home, P.O. Box 409, Prosser, WA 99350.
