Lorraine J. (Tapio) Mercier

Lorraine was born in Champion, Michigan, on October 8th, 1931, a daughter of the late Charles L. and Lillian M. (Blair) Ilves. She graduated from Republic High School, Class of 1949. She resided in Michigamme, Waukegan, IL, but lived most of her life in Republic.

Lorraine was a mother of 10 children, so most her time she spent was raising her family. She did work for the Republic-Michigamme Schools as a secretary and enjoyed teaching special education kids. Lorraine enjoyed traveling to Florida, Arizona, Texas and even a trip to Europe. She was an artist who enjoyed painting, writing short stories and poetry. She loved singing and long walks in the woods. Lorraine was a member of the St. Augustine Catholic Church.

Lorraine is survived by 9 children: James Tapio, Charlene Tapio, David (Judy) Tapio, Donald (Ann) Tapio, Bruce (Denise) Tapio, Debra (Tom) Hoffoss, Dana (Sue) Tapio, Jon (Kim) Tapio and Michelle (Mike) Strabley, 34 grandchildren, numerous great- and great-great- grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Lorraine was preceded in death by her parents, husbands: Francis “Jim” Tapio, and Clifford “Kip” Mercier, a son: Bob Tapio and a sister: Jean Peterson

Lorraine’s family will greet relatives and friends from 10:30 am – 12:00 noon EST on Saturday, March 25th, 2023, at St. Augustine Catholic Church where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:00 noon with Fr. Christian Flagstadt officiating.

A luncheon will follow in the church fellowship hall.

Memorials may be directed to ald foundation- Addison’s Disease which can be found at aldfoundation.org/addison.php in memory of Lorraine.

Lorraine’s obituary may be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com, where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.