James Clyde Mercer

James C. Mercer, 83, of Detroit Lakes, MN, died peacefully at his home under the care of Hospice with family by his side on Monday, February 5, 2024.

James Clyde Mercer, son of Ellsworth and Lillian (Arneson) Mercer was born on October 5, 1940, in Detroit Lakes, MN. He attended school in Detroit Lakes, MN. After graduation, Jim joined the Army National Guard where he served for four years.

Jim had a variety of jobs. He moved his family to Seattle and worked for Boeing, and managed the Country Kitchen and was a pastry chef at the Graystone Hotel when they moved back to Detroit Lakes. Jim loved law enforcement and began that journey by being on the auxiliary, then worked as a jailer, then finally became a Deputy Sheriff, a career that lasted 25 years. After retiring from the Sheriff’s office, Jim went back to work for the Becker County Zoning Department for 10 years.

Jim married Jeanne Heilman in 1991. They each had one son and one daughter and a blended family was formed. Together, they loved to travel and have family and friends at their lake home. 33 years later, their family has grown by adding 12 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.

Jim had a passion for flying and was a talented wood carver. He loved to cut and split wood by hand. He was very involved in the State Crime Prevention Association and served as president for a time. He volunteered on many boards and committees within the community, and took great joy in riding in parades with McGruff the Crime Dog.

Jim is survived by his wife, Jeanne; four children: Susan Mercer, Scott (Beverly) Mercer, Tamra (Dennis) Edwards, and Michael (Jenny) Heilman; 12 grandchildren; 7 great grandchildren; and brother, Rollie (Cyndi) Mercer.

Preceding Jim in death was his parents, one brother, two sisters, and his granddaughter, Amity Gray.

Time for visitation will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, February 9, 2024, at the United Methodist Church. A memorial service will then begin at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Kevin Gregory officiating and Military Honors to conclude services. Interment will be held later in the spring.