MERCKE, Frank R., Sr.,91, passed away peacefully in his home Saturday, April 15, 2017.Frank is survived by his three sons, F. Ray Mercke, Jr. (Debbie) and J. Russell Mercke (Alison), both of Lafayette, LA and J. Roger Mercke (Becky) of Louisville, KY; 8 grandchildren, Chad, Rhiannon, Jim (Shea), Jay (Caitlin), John, Corey, Bill (Taylor), and Beth (Michael); 7 great-granddaughters and one great-great grandson. He is also survived by Marikeith (Wilson) Mercke who was a true blessing and a beloved gift in Frank's life; they shared an incomparable love and devotion.Frank was born on August 23, 1925 in Louisville, KY. He was a faithful servant and life-time member of Beargrass Christian Church serving as Deacon, Elder and Chairman of the Board. As part of the "Greatest Generation", he served our country during WWII as a B-29 tail-gunner. He was a football official for the KHSOA for over 25 years and was a passionate supporter of the Charles L. Shedd Kentucky Association. He was a loving family man, and will be remembered for his kindness, loyalty, and compassion.Frank was preceded in death by his wife of 41 years, Mary Lewis (Bowen) and two brothers, C. Clarence and W. Keith Mercke.A memorial service will be held at Beargrass Christian Church, 4100 Shelbyville Road at NoonThursday, April 20, 2017 with burial to follow in Cave Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until time of service at Noon at the church.Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Charles L. Shedd KY Association Inc., 4801Sherburn Avenue, LL1, Louisville, KY 40207 or Beargrass Christian Church.