James E. Mertens

James E. “Jim” Mertens, 80, of California, Mo., passed away on Tuesday, August 23 2022, at the California Care Center. He was born on December 11, 1941, in Jefferson City, Mo., the son of Everett “Evy” Mertens and Gladys (Guyer) Mertens, both of whom preceded him in death. James was a 1959 graduate of California High School. He enjoyed working on vehicles, NASCAR, bingo, dominoes and watching nature. He was a member of Annunciation Catholic Church. James is survived by a daughter, Angie Bryant (Christopher) of California, Mo.; a son, Donnie Mertens (Sabra) of California, Mo.; two brothers, Robert Mertens of Tipton and Everett Mertens of California, Mo.; four sisters, Dorothy Braun of Osage Bend, Mo., Jane Bishop of California, Mo., Pat Porter of California, Mo. and Betty Elliott of Clarksburg, Mo.; and five grandchildren. Visitation will be from 1:00-3:00 p.m., with the funeral service following at 3:00 p.m., all on Friday, August 26, 2022, at Bowlin-Cantriel Funeral Services. Officiating will be Rev. Jeremy Barnard. Memorials are suggested to the D.A.V., c/o the funeral home. Arrangements are under the direction of Bowlin-Cantriel Funeral Services, California, Mo.