Lawrence Mercades

Lawrence Mercades, 87 years of age, devoted husband to Helen (for 62 years), and loving father to Doreen. Loving son of Cayetano and Rosa Mercades.  Brother to Modesto, Polonio, Josephine, and Valentina, who are deceased.  Brother to surviving siblings Eusebia and John.

Lawrence was born and raised on the Island of Maui, in Hawaii.  In high school he was a running back on the football team, and a track star who at one time was the fastest sprinter on the island.  After leaving the Coast Guard, Lawrence moved to Chicago to go to school, and became a medical x-ray technician who later tried to retire five times before it finally stuck.   Lawrence held a 2nd degree black belt in Aikido and later in life enjoyed participating in Mayor Daley’s Senior Olympics with his wife.  He was an avid sports fan, who despite being a North Sider rooted for the White Sox.  And he proudly enjoyed watching his daughter and her hālau sisters dance the hula.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday from 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. at Cooney Funeral Home located at 3918 W. Irving Park Rd. in Chicago.

Funeral service 11:30 a.m. at Cooney Funeral Home with limited attendance due to COVID restrictions. A live stream of the service can be viewed at https://www.facebook.com/cooneyfuneralhome/ In lieu of flowers, donations to the American Heart Association are appreciated.

Interment with military honors at 2:00 p.m. at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery located at 20953 W. Hoff.Rd in Elwood, IL.  This will be outdoors, and all are welcome to attend. 

The family is planning a memorial celebration in Larry’s honor when more people can attend.  Date to be determined.

For information please call 773-588-5850 or visit www.cooneyfuneralhome.com 

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