Jeanette Elizabeth Mertens

Jeanette Elizabeth Mertens, 91, of Union, passed away Wednesday, August 7, 2013, in Union. She was born July 1, 1922, in Kalona, Iowa, daughter of the late Emil Conrad and wife, Carrie E. Hinkel Conrad. Jeanette graduated from Centertown High School in Centertown, Missouri. On December 25, 1941, Jeanette was united in marriage to Mr. Richard "Dick" Mertens in Fort Smith, Arkansas. They moved to Union in 1965. She worked as a secretary for MFA Insurance, later becoming Shelter Insurance. Jeanette was a dedicated member of the First Baptist Church in Union and taught Sunday School for more than 40 years. Mrs. Mertens is survived by three daughters, Marilyn Stites and husband Richard of Colorado Springs, Colo., Merrie Beth Manz and husband Ron of Union, and Lora Jean Copeland and husband Mike of Union; seven grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Virginia Barbour of California, Mo.; other relatives, and many friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dick on April 25, 1984; one grandson, Nolan Stites on August 29, 2000; and two siblings, Dorothy Jarrett and Clyde Conrad. Funeral service was held Saturday, August 10, 2013, at 10 a.m. at the First Baptist Church in Union with Rev. Greg Cross officiating. Burial in the Centertown Cemetery in Centertown, Mo. Memorials preferred to First Baptist Church or Mercy Hospital Foundation. The family was served by the Oltmann Funeral Home in Union. To send condolences, please visit our website at www.oltmannfuneralhome.com