John Harold Mertens

Johnny H. Mertens, age 68, of Nevada, Missouri, passed away suddenly at his home on February 16. He was born on December 14, 1957, to the late Lavohn and Marvin Mertens.

John graduated from Seneca High School in 1975, where he met his lifelong companion, Debbie. Together they built a life centered on faith and family and were blessed with three daughters: Jeanne, Jennifer, and Johnna.

In his younger years, John answered God's call to ministry and faithfully served the United Methodist Church, leading his family to many communities as he preached and ministered to others. After many dedicated years of service, he retired from preaching but continued to live out his faith in his daily life.

When he wasn't in the pulpit, John had a love for the thrill of the track. On many Saturday nights in his younger years, he could be found behind the wheel of the No. 32 street stock car race, embracing the excitement of racing. One of his greatest honors in recent years was watching his daughter Jeanne continue that legacy this past racing season, a source of immense pride and joy for him.

Following retirement, John devoted himself to what he loved most - planning and decorating events. He found great joy in balloon artistry and event décor, taking special pride in decorating his daughters' weddings and creating beautiful memories for their special days. John had a deep love for horses and the outdoors. Above all, he cherished his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Though he kept them on their toes, he adored each of them dearly. He always made sure his family was cared for and never failed to have a dollar and snacks ready for his great-grandchildren when they came to visit.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lavohn and Marvin Mertens; two sisters, Jeanne and Judy; and one brother, Jim.

John is survived by his lifelong companion, Debbie of Nevada, Missouri; his three daughters: Jeanne (Victor) Ellison of El Dorado Springs, Missouri; Jennifer (Jaren) Roberts of Nevada, Missouri; and Johnna (Matt) Boch of El Dorado Springs, Missouri; two sisters, Janie (Richard) Hopkins of Coker, Alabama; Janna Mertens of Gladstone, Oregon; eight grandchildren: Deven (Rachel) Watkins, Logan (Shaniah) Roberts, Justin Ellison, Jonathon (Kiera) Ellison, Caitlyn Roberts, Hannah Roberts, Gabby Boch, and Gavin Boch; and six great-grandchildren: Audra, Millie, and Maeve Watkins, Jackson and Bryson Roberts, and Everly Ellison. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends.

John will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his adventurous spirit, his creativity, his devotion to family, and the joy he brought to all who knew him.

The family will be holding a private ceremony at a later date.

Memorial and floral tributes may be left for the family in c/o Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada.