Dennis A. Mertens

Dennis Mertens ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by Hemer-Pickerign Funeral Home - Medford on Mar. 17, 2026.Dennis A. Mertens, longtime Medford resident and former owner of Mertens Garage, passed away on Saturday, March 14, 2026, surrounded by his family, under the care of Hope Hospice.A memorial mass for Dennis will take place on Thursday, March 26, 2026 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church at 11:30AM, with Father Patrick McConnell officiating. Burial will follow at Dorchester Memorial Cemetery. Visitation will take place at Holy Rosary Catholic Church on Thursday, March 26 from 10:00 AM until the time of service at 11:30AM.He was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Albert and Sylvia (Tenneson) Mertens. During his childhood, the family moved to Dorchester, where he grew up and graduated from Dorchester High School. After graduation, Dennis proudly served in the U.S. National Guard. Following his service, he returned home to work alongside his father at Mertens Garage in Dorchester, where he developed his lifelong trade as an automotive mechanic.Dennis married Agnes Stelzel in July of 1954, and together they built a strong and loving familyIn 1968, Dennis took over the Chrysler Plymouth dealership; that same year his brother Henry (Hank) Mertens joined the business and the two brothers operated the business together for many years. During their tenure they later added the Jeep franchise, expanding the dealership's offerings to the community. Dennis retired after decades of dedicated service, though he remained involved with the dealership on a limited basis, always willing to lend his experience and support.Dennis was also deeply involved in the Medford community. He was a member of the Medford Curling Club, a member of Holy Rosary Parish, served with the Knights of Columbus, and served on the Medford School Board.Dennis and Agnes had 4 Sons, Scott Mertens (Barb Shuester), Tom Mertens ( Susan Mertens), Richard Mertens, Mitchell Mertens; Grandchildren, Jessica Mertens, Jamie Wistein (Laurie Wistein ), Sheila Wild (Jason Wild), Amanda Van Wie (Billy Van Wie), Isaac Hoffman (Nikole Hoffman), Cecilia Manowski; Sara Mertens and Keri Urbina (Leo Urbina); 22 Great-Grandchildren, and 2 Great-great grandchildren.Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Sylvia and brothers, Henry "Hank" Mertens and Lloyd Mertens.Dennis was known for his warm personality and his ability to make people feel welcome. He valued friendships, conversations, and community, and he enjoyed staying active and engaged throughout his life.He will be remembered for his love of people.In lieu of flowers memorial donations in Dennis' name may be given to the Holy Rosary Catholic Church.To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Dennis A. Mertens, please visit our floral store.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.