Traverse City, Michigan
KEWADIN — Martin George Mertz Jr., 53, of Kewadin (Torch Lake), left this life on Dec. 31, 2006.
He was born Dec. 6, 1953, the very beloved son of Martin and Rose Mertz of Kewadin. He is also survived by his sisters, Katherine (Ken) Wohlfert of Huntsville, Ala., Margy (Jim Giannestras) Mertz of Williamsburg and Betsy (David) Crawford of Greensboro, N.C.; brother, Thomas Mertz of Los Angeles; his adored niece and nephew, Ursula Wohlfert and Vanya Pylypchuk. He also shared a long, loving relationship with Claire and Alexis Geiger of Florida. He is survived as well by multitudes of old and new friends. He never met a stranger.
In 1972, Martin graduated from Berkley High School, where he was junior class president, student council president and captain of the basketball team. He was a biology major at Central Michigan University.
An excellent cook, Martin was also a skilled craftsman, and created beautiful pieces of fine furniture. He had a genius IQ, which was evident in his diverse pursuits.
He loved the outdoors, and was known on Torch Lake for his waterskiing prowess. He was deeply spiritual; he loved life, his family and friends, and all animals. His positive attitude and wit touched everyone who knew him. His family and friends will continue to see him everywhere — especially in every sunrise, every full moon over Torch Lake, and on the newly-fallen snow.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 6, at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Elk Rapids. The family will receive friends prior to the services.
Memorial contributions in his name may be directed to the Torch Lake Protection Alliance, P.O. Box 706, Bellaire, MI 49615.
The Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home of Traverse City is serving the family; www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com
This obituary was originally published in the Record-Eagle.
I AM SO VERY SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. MARTY WAS A GREAT GUY. OUR FAMILY HAS MANY GREAT MEMORIES OF HIM. ALTHOUGH WE DO NOT SEE EACH OTHER OFTEN, THE MERTZ FAMILY WILL ALWAYS BE A PART OF US., WE GO BACK ALONG WAY. MARTY WILL BE MISSED. MY SINCERE SYMPATHY AND LOVE TO YOU
LINDA HOEMKE
January 17, 2007 | BERKLEY, MI
My wife Linda and I are very sorry for the loss of your son and brother.
He was and will always be a special friend to me.While we hadn't kept in contact on a day-to-day(or even year-to-year)basis recently,whenever we did meet the conversation seemed to pick up where we last left it,no matter how long ago,seasoned of course with alot of laughter.I've been blessed with several friendships like that,and I will try to use Marty's too-short life as an inspiration to show them their proper value.
Bob Siver
January 13, 2007 | Caseville, MI
Hi Margy:
I am sorry for your loss of your brother.
Linda, my wife went to school with your brother, Marty at Berkley. She was sad to read about his death. I didn't connect that you were his sister until yesterday. I worked with you at Child and Family Services. Again, Margy I am so sorry for your loss of your brother.
Chuck Mueller
Chuck Mueller
January 12, 2007 | Traverse City, MI
We are so saddened and hurt by Marty's death. Our heart's ache along with all of yours. We grew up together and we feel as though we have lost a part of our family. We are all thinking of you with heartfelt sympathy. Even though we are miles away we are here for you; whatever we can do. Marty will be in our hearts and minds forever. Our love and prayers to all of you. Nancy Hoemke on behalf of all the Hoemke's. We Love You.
Nancy Hoemke
January 06, 2007 | Berkley
I didn't know Marty for long, but he always greeted me with a smile and a hug. By far, he was one of the friendliest people I've ever known, and I will truly miss him.
Marge Baldwin
January 06, 2007 | Torch River
Marty was a life long friend and brother in life . One of my Heros on a short list . Finally,hopefully he has found peace.
Judy and Dean Stone
January 06, 2007 | Royal Oak
Dear Margie and family,
We are so saddened to hear of both yours and our loss. Marty was a great man to know, he had a way to make people feel as though they mattered and were special. He will be greatly missed. With sincere condolences, The Choiniere's
Lori Choiniere
January 06, 2007 | Kewadin
We wanted to send our sympathy from the old neighborhood. Berkley. We were so sad to here of Martys death. His life was much to short but it sounds like he made the most of the short time he was here. Know that we are all thinking of you.
Joyce Brown,Gail & Bill & family
January 05, 2007 | Berkley
My memories of Marty date back to our early years at Pattengill in Berkley. I don't recall which grade we were first together in, but he was, even then, so much taller than I. I guess 'gentle giant' is the term that comes to me whenever his name crosses my mind. Marty and I had what can best be described as an unconditional friendship. He was one of the nicest people I have ever met. He never expected anything of me, but I have to admit, in grade school back then it was a good thing for a...
Jon and Chris Murrell
January 05, 2007 | Berkley
