In Memoriam: Mike Mercer

A much loved member of the Seattle environmental education community passed away last weekend from a heart attack. I knew Mike Mercer through my work at the Mercer Slough Environmental Education Center. Mike worked with Seattle Public Utilities, and he provided guidance for our high school internship program’s activities at Taylor Creek in South Seattle. I remember Mike’s goofy sense of humor. I have a picture in my head of Mike dancing like crazy at one of the EEAW conferences in the past. He was a fun guy. The following is reprinted from an email I received last week.

Our loving husband, father, son, brother and friend left us all too soon. Mike died suddenly on July 13 of a massive heart attack. A passionate explorer, he worked with audiences of all ages to promote environmental stewardship. Mike was active in environmental education his entire life, first as a middle school and high school teacher, then as city planner, environmental educator, environmental program coordinator and manager for the City of Seattle, where he contributed 25 years of exemplary public service.

Mike is survived by his wife Barbara, son Colin, daughters, Danae and Erin and extended family.

We will all remember his love of the outdoors and creative spirit. Mike will be sorely missed and will be in our hearts forever! We love you!

In lieu of flowers we suggest donations to the Mike Mercer Scholarship Fund for Environmental Education, which will provide environmental learning opportunities to disadvantaged youth. To donate, send your check made out to the Environmental Education Association of Washington, P.O. Box 6277, Olympia, WA 98507. Please note that funds are to be used for the Mike Mercer Scholarship Fund. For more information, please contact Al Dietemann, Seattle Public Utilities, at 206 684-5881 or al.dietemann@seattle.gov