RUMFORD – A Mass of Christian Burial for Philip J. Mercier was celebrated Monday morning at St. Athanasius and St. John Church in Rumford, with the Rev. Angelo LeVasseur as the celebrant. Organist was Mark Belanger and special music selections were “Ave Maria” and “Amazing Grace.” Gift bearers were his daughter, Marie-Elena Jablonski, and her daughter, Elizabeth. Committal services were conducted by Deacon Rod Berger and interment was at St. John Cemetery, Rumford.

Military honors were provided by VFW Post 3335, American Legion Post 10, AMVETS Post 10, and Sons of AMVETS Squadron 33, as follows: firing squad, Richard Dupont, Joe Grooms, David Smith, Dick Moreau and Bob Welch; honor guard, Harry Sabin, Gerard Richard, Wally Tripp, Gerry Toothaker and Greg MacDonald; flag presenters, Neree Simmons and Dick Therrien; and “Taps,” Dick Therrien. A reception followed at the St. Athanasius and St. John Church Hall.