He was born June 9, 1934, a son of the late George and Mary Johnson Mertens.
Bruce as he was known by so many people was the owner of Merts Wholesale Auto Parts in Akron. Bruce had served his country with the U.S. Army from 1954-1956. He was a longtime member of the Akron Newstead Rotary Club and was also a member of the American Legion and VFW. He enjoyed collecting stamps and coins and was an avid history buff.
He was predeceased by his wife, Doris Mertens and son, Michael Mertens.
Surviving are his children, Robert (Patti) Mertens of Buffalo, Deborah (Michael) Kiel of Cheektowaga, Todd (Laurie Ann) Mertens of Cheektowaga and Patricia (late Walter) Sherron of Richmond, VA. Daughter in-law, Ginny Mertens of Arizona. Also survived by 12 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.
Visitation and funeral services will be held at a later date due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Interment will be in Evergreen Lawn Cemetery in Akron.
Memorial contributions may be made to the New York State Veterans Home Activities Fund, 220 Richmond Ave., Batavia, NY 14020. Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at: www.mcandrewfuneralhomes.net.
ARRANGEMENTS WERE ENTRUSTED TO THE J. LEONARD McANDREW FUNERAL HOME, LLC, 32 JOHN ST., AKRON, NY 14001. RONALD KONIECZNY II, DIRECTOR.
