Patricia Margaret Mertens (Lauer), age 92, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, August 14, 2026 at Aspirus Hospital in Medford, surrounded by family.

 

A memorial service for Patricia will take place at 11:00 AM on Monday, August 24, 2026 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church with Father Patrick McConnell officiating. Burial will follow at Holy Rosary Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will take place at Holy Rosary Catholic Church on Monday, August 24, 2026 from 9:00 AM until the time of service at 11:00 AM.

 

Patricia was born on May 4, 1934, to the late William and Rose (Jansen) Lauer. She was united in marriage to Henry “Hank” Mertens on October 19, 1957, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Marshfield.

 

Patricia dedicated over 40 years of her life to nursing, working as a registered nurse from 1954 until her retirement in 1997. She began her career at Marshfield Hospital and later continued her nursing career at Medford Memorial Hospital. She dedicated her life to being a fantastic nurse and wonderful mother.

 

Following her retirement, Patricia remained active in her church and community. She volunteered with numerous church committees and faithfully served communion. She also volunteered with Hope Hospice for many years, continuing her lifelong commitment to caring for and supporting others. She  enjoyed curling, golfing, and playing cards with family and friends.

 

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, Hank Mertens; her son, Mark Mertens; her in laws, Albert and Sylvia Mertens; her brothers, Bill Lauer and Gene Lauer.

 

She is survived by her loving children, Ann (Duke) Hartmann; Kathy (Ken) Wegerer; Kim Mertens; her six grandchildren, Travis Wegerer, Teri Wegerer, Maggie (Erik) Westberg, Benjamin (Jess) Hartman, Maxwell (Lydia) Hartman, Samuel Hartman, and 4 beautiful great-grandchildren, Dawson Webb, Lela Westberg, Reese Hartman, and Beau Hartman. She is further survived by her sister, Bertie Becher and many other family and friends.

 

Pat also leaves behind a special group of women with whom she shared church, coffee, sweet treats and cards almost every Sunday. 

 

Blessings to all Pat’s wonderful and family and friends. She will be greatly missed.

 

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Medford Food Pantry in Pat Mertens name.