Gary A. Mertz

January 30, 1942 - November 23, 2021

GARY A. MERTZ Gary Mertz passed away November 23, 2021 in Osage Beach, Missouri. He lived in Sunrise Beach, Missouri after retirement from Santa Fe Railroad (BNSF) where he worked as an electrician for forty years. Gary was born January 30, 1942 in Overland Park, Kansas to Edward and Alice Mertz. Gary and his wife, Tommie Kay Mertz were married October 2, 1966. Gary and Tommie enjoyed fifty-five years of marriage and enjoyed traveling, which they did a lot. Gary proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from 1966 to 1968. Gary served in Vietnam in the 815th Engineers Combat from 1967 to 1968 where he was exposed to agent Orange that caused damage to his heart and lungs. He suffered several years with breathing problems. Gary was proud to have served his country and flag in a very unpopular war. Gary is survived by his wife, Tommie; two children from a previous marriage, Timothy Mertz and Pam Morley both living in Colorado and five grandchildren, Malory Mertz, Matthew Morley, Michelle Belmont, Marissa Irakoze and Molly Morley. Gary was a member of the V.F.W. Post 5923 in Camdenton, Missouri, the American Legion Post 0624 in Sunrise Beach, Missouri and the Osage Community Elks Lodge 2705 in Laurie, Missouri. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, December 11, 2021 at Kidwell-Garber Laurie/Sunrise Beach Chapel in Laurie, Missouri with full military honors being conferred. Visitation will be from 1:00-2:00 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home. The family requests that those attending the service, please wear a face covering. Memorial donations may be made to Central Missouri Honor Flight. Arrangements are under the care and direction of the Kidwell-Garber Laurie/Sunrise Beach Chapel.