John W. Kerce

February 7, 1947 - June 24, 2021

John William Kerce (74), better known as Pops, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Thursday, June 24, 2021. Born February 7, 1947, in Tallahassee, FL, he graduated from Leon High School and soon after joined the United States Marine Corps headed to Vietnam from ’67-’68 where he became a Corporal and Expert Rifleman. Upon his return, he founded First Impression Painting Contractors, Inc., painting residential and commercial properties in the Big Bend area for more than 30 years. In his retirement, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and visiting with his neighbors. His green thumb made his backyard a paradise and he found joy in raising the many butterflies his garden attracted. Pops never met a stranger. He was kind and generous, but the quality he will most be remembered for was his ability to make you laugh. Pops is survived by his bride of 36 years, Dona and his three children: John Thomas, Gini (Matt), Sam (Alice), and his two grandchildren, Harrison and Eloise. The family will hold a memorial service at Bevis Funeral Home of Tallahassee on Friday, July 30, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. with a reception to follow. We all know he was not a dress-up kind of guy, so please come comfortable. An intimate family ceremony will be held at the National Cemetery at another time. In lieu of flowers, the family asks friends and family to please donate to the Capital City Kiwanis Club in Pops’ honor. https://CCKCTallahassee.portalbuzz.com/memorial Breanna Green of Bevis Funeral Home is assisting the family with their arrangements. (850-385-2193 or www.bevisfh.com)