Mercedes Martha Grote, age 77 of Northfield, passed away June 24, 2023. She was born in Lima, Peru to Alvaro & Isabel (Cenzano) Gamarra. She came to this country in the early 80’s (Brooklyn NY) with her 3 children to give them a better life which was not easy, but she was so adamant, and she made that dream come true. She landed a job with America Express Corporate Offices as a Cafeteria Cashier. Five years later she landed a position with HBO NY Headquarters as a Mailroom Clerk Supervisor. She then met husband, Robert J. Grote and later married and raised Milena (James) Michaelidis, Juan Carlos & Miguel Jaguande. She had 3 beautiful grandchildren: Jessica, Dimitri & Yianni. She made a move to South Jersey in the 90’s and bought her dream home in Northfield where she enjoyed gardening and just taking care of her home that she cherished. She then started a job with Trump Marina Casino as a Housekeeping Supervisor. She is also survived by brothers, sisters as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins all over Peru, Europe, and the United States. She was born like a brilliant spark, while time was running out, and gave a deafening cry for life. She was as she was, likewise transparent, without a filter, asserting her own style. Many people remember her as an amazing dancer, funny, outgoing, good hearted. An enthusiast, she could unload an entire load of worry with a mere smile or a boisterous laugh. Attached to her children, Milena, Carlos, Mickey, and her grandchildren. Always musical, she despised boredom. Active Frenetic Revolutionary That was Meche. A melody, a pair of wings in flight, an eternal carnaval. An enemy to bereavement, a long face and uncertainty That is how she'll be remembered...By her name and personal trademark...LA MECHE.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Thursday June 29, 2023 at 11:00 AM with a visitation prior to the mass from 9-11 AM at St. Gianna Beretta Molla Parish Church 1421 New Road Northfield, NJ 08225. Interment will be private and at the convenience of the family.