Bernard J. Mertz, 89, of Botkins, passed away at 5:58 p.m. Sunday, December 20, 2020 at Mercy Health-St. Rita's Medical Center, Lima.

He was born on January 5, 1931 in St. Patrick, OH to John F. & Catherine (Behr) Mertz who preceded him in death. On May 25, 1955 he married Rosetta K. Wagner and she survives.

Survivors include 3 children David (Jean Ann) Mertz of Wapakoneta, Janice (Dave) Lonsdale of Columbus, Jane (Kenneth) Braun of Wapakoneta; 6 grandchildren Emilia (Adam) Baker, Megan (Ryan) McGrath, Amy (Zach) Wilson, Jessica (Josh) Muhlenkamp, Thomas (Samantha) Braun, Bobbi Jo (Andy) Bendele; 4 great-grandchildren Brynn Baker, Payton Bendele, Lily Bendele, Violet Bendele; siblings Sister Adeline Mertz C.P.P.S, Dayton, Patrick Mertz of Clermont, FL; brother and sister-in-laws Alvera Mertz of Coldwater, Joyce Wagner of Cridersville, Clarence Wagner of Marietta, OK, and Rita Reigelsperger of Uniopolis.

He was preceded in death by his brothers Robert Mertz, Charles (Alma) Mertz, Thomas Mertz, infant brother John; sisters Theresa (Stanley) Fiely, Margaret (Herbert) Quinter; sisters-in-law Marcena Wagner, Victoria Wagner; brothers-in-law Leo Wagner, Richard (Phyllis) Wagner, Harold (Donna) Wagner and Paul Reigelsperger.

Benny attended Fort Loramie High School and served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. He retired from Crown after 30 years of service. He was a member of St. John Catholic Church, Fryburg. Benny enjoyed gardening, fishing and helping his family.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 2:30 p.m. Monday, December 28, 2020 at St. John Catholic Church, Fryburg with Rev. Sean Wilson officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with military rites performed by the V.F.W. Post 8445.

Family and friend may call from 12-2 p.m. at Schlosser Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Wapakoneta.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the American Heart Association or to the Alzheimer's Association.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.schlosserfuneralhome.com.