John Mersinger went to his eternal home in the early morning of Thursday, February 26, 2026.
He is survived by his loving wife, Jaci Stepp, stepdaughter, Shaelyn McDonald, his parents, Robert and Kathy Mersinger, his sister and her family, Laura, Randy, Lizzie, and Logan Reinhardt, Mother and Father-in-law, Lester and Esther Stepp, Brother-in-law and family, Brian, Patricia, Riley and Sophie Stepp, and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.
John graduated from Washington High School in Washington, MO, and then attended St. Louis Community College, where he studied Culinary Arts and developed his lifelong passion for cooking. He enjoyed nothing more than preparing great meals for his friends and family.
John moved to Raleigh in 2000 and worked at several restaurants, eventually becoming an Executive Chef. He and Jaci met in 2003 while both were working at Hilton Garden Inn, John as Food and Beverage Director, and they were married in 2013.
In addition to cooking, John loved music and baseball, especially the St. Louis Cardinals. He and Jaci enjoyed live music and attended many concerts, at large and small venues, and music festivals. Some of his favorite bands included The Black Crowes, Grateful Dead, Rolling Stones, and Widespread Panic. John was the proud owner of an impressive collection of concert t-shirts and posters.
Services: There will be a life celebration service for John at Kutis Funeral Home, City Chapel, 2906 Gravois Ave., St. Louis,63118, on March 5th at 4:00 PM. The family will host a dinner after the service.
Also, a second life celebration will be held on March 28th at Trophy Brewing and Pizza on W. Morgan St., Raleigh, NC (food will be provided) from 12:00 – 4:00 PM.
John’s earthly remains will be interred at Stepp Family Cemetery in Hendersonville, NC, on March 30th.
In lieu of flowers, contributions to the family to help with funeral expenses are greatly appreciated.
Jaci and family,
I know you and I have only met a couple of times – most likely at one of Taylor’s birthday oyster roasts. But I do recall how much fun you both made the occasion with lots of laughter, and music, and good food. I understand that John has had several health challenges over the past year. I see that you will have a Celebration of Life in Raleigh near the end of March. That will make a lot of people who have loved you and John happy. I am so sad for your loss, but hope that your future is full of happy memories.
You have my sincere condolences for the loss of your dear love.
So sorry to learn of your loss. Just know that you and all of the family are in our thoughts and prayers.
We are so deeply sorry to learn of John’s passing. Our hearts break for all of you. So many memories of the early years and times spent with our kids happily playing.
Sending love and prayers to your family at this very tough time.
May God send you strength
Dave, Barbie, Tony, Amy, and Ali LaRusso
So sorry to hear of your loss. My prayers and thoughts are with you.
Kathy Noelker
Kathy and Bob so sorry to see about John. That was a real shock when I saw it and read the obituary. Take care .
Love Mike and Sue Vap
I am so sorry Jaci. My thoughts and prayers are with you .