William M. "Bill" Mertz
William M. "Bill" Mertz
Obituary
Guest Book
William Mertz Obituary
January 3, 1939 – May 27, 2025
William M. Mertz, of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away peacefully on May 27, 2025, at Valley View Village. Born on January 3, 1939, Bill lived a full and vibrant life marked by his outgoing personality and deep connections with those around him.
Bill was a social butterfly who never met a stranger. He liked to watch NASCAR and wrestling. He was an avid sports fan. He enjoyed fishing and gardening. In his younger years, Bill was married to Janice Delk. From that union 3 children were born: Michelle, Tracy and Michael. Later in life he married Bette Rauch and with that union he gained a daughter, Rebecca. One of the things he was most proud of was his 30+ years with the Railroad. He will be missed by many.
Bill is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Bette; his children Michelle (Scott) Jones, Tracy (Gary) Wolfe, Michael Mertz, Rebecca Wright (Darin Murphy); fifteen grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild; and his faithful canine companion, Sampson.
He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, a son, and two grandchildren.
No formal services will be held. Family and friends are invited to a potluck-style celebration of life at the Mertz residence on June 21, 2025, from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Dr. Heims for the exceptional care and compassion she provided to Bill over the years.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
How you can show support
Follow
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
0 Entries
Be the first to post a memory or condolences.
2135 SW 9th Street, Des Moines, IA 50315
Make a Donation
in William Mertz's name
People and places connected with William
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
How to support William's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor William Mertz's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
