Gary Mertens

Gary (Gab) William Mertens, 75, of Staples, passed away June 17, 2022, surrounded by his loved ones in the comfort of his home, after a short battle of emphysema that flared up after a bout of pneumonia. 

Funeral services were held June 27, at the Motley Free Methodist Church.

Interment was at Evergreen Hill Cemetery, Staples.

Gary was born February 10, 1947 to Clarence and Opal (Stave) Mertens in Bertha. Gab spent his childhood on the family farm and attended the Sacred Heart Catholic School. He graduated in 1964 from Staples High School, where he met his wife of nearly 55 years, Dorothy (Dot) Dobson. The couple were married on July 8, 1967. Gab worked with Anderson Brothers after graduation for about three years before joining the U.S. Air Force in 1967. He served overseas during the Vietnam War for one year and was discharged in 1970. Gary returned home and worked for Northern Manufacturing for 20 years and for Todd County, plowing and paving roads for 29 years.

Gab enjoyed fishing, hunting (in his younger years) and spending time on the farm. He really enjoyed spending time with his grandkids, Kaitlyn, Sarah, Brandon, Daniel and Joshua and great-grandkids, Braven, Carter, Reese, Cameron, Aurora and Juneau.

Gab is survived by his wife, Dot; one son, Gary, Jr.; five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents; one son, Chad; two brothers and one sister.

Arrangements were by the Brenny Family Funeral Chapel, Staples.

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