Jean P. Mercho

Dr. Jean P Mercho, 87, Indianapolis, was called home to be with his Lord December 24, 2021. Born the 5th of 11 children in Hassake, Syria to Elias and Nabiha (Kaouk) Mercho, Dr. Mercho came to the United States in 1961 after attending St. Joseph University Medical School in Beirut, Lebanon. After residencies at Rush University and IU School of Medicine, Dr. Mercho established the first heart surgery program at Community Hospital in 1972. His work with the Community Hospital Network, as well as Union and Terre Haute Regional Hospitals, revolutionized heart surgery and access to specialized care in the Midwest.

Dr. Mercho loved one thing even more than medicine – his family. “Baba” loved nothing more than opening his home to brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews, and friends, all Middle Eastern-Christians inspired by Dr. Mercho’s courage to seek the American Dream. He was preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Anna. Survivors include his children Elizabeth (Khamis), John, James, Jennifer (Reidy) and Nicole (Sibilski), and 12 grandchildren.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Community Hospital Foundation, 7330 Shadeland Station, Suite 150, Indianapolis, IN 46256; Union Hospital Foundation, 1606 N. 7th St., Terre Haute, IN, 47804; or Regional Hospital Foundation, 3901 S. 7th St., Terre Haute, IN, 47802.

Visitation will be held Thursday, January 6th from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Flanner Buchanan-Broad Ripple, 1305 Broad Ripple Ave., Indianapolis. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 am Friday, January 7th at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 4217 Central Ave., Indianapolis, IN, 46205. Burial will be at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Cemetery, following which, there will be a Mercy Meal at St. George Orthodox Christian Church, 10748 E 116th St, Fishers, IN. Online condolences may be shared at www.flannerbuchanan.com.

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