Wendy J. Mertes

Wendy J. Mertes, 75, of Elyria, passed away peacefully September 11, 2024 after a long illness.   She was born January 3, 1949 in Lakewood, OH and was a 1966 graduate of Lakewood High School.  She and her husband, Jack made Elyria their home in 1968 and established a close network of friends through their involvement with GESA (Greater Elyria Soccer Association), neighbors, and Wendy’s many years working for Elyria City Schools as an instructional aide. 

She loved raising her children on a street where neighbors felt like family, tinkering in her garden, following the Cleveland Indians, line-dancing on Saturday nights, and playing community ‘mom’ to a myriad of her children’s friends. However, nothing brought her more joy than being with her 6 grandchildren. 

 Wendy is survived by children, Chris (Melissa) Mertes of Twinsburg, OH, Carrie (Mike) Nagorka of Parma and Laura (Brad) Ternes of Elyria; grandchildren, Ryan and Sara Mertes, Scarlett and Sophie Nagorka and Stella and Jack Ternes.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John C. “Jack” in 1996.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to the staff of Devon Oaks in Westlake for the attentive care and compassion they showed Wendy. They would also like to thank Debbie Morris for her 45 years of friendship and specifically the love, guidance and assistance she gave the family during the last 2 years of Wendy’s illness. 

Friends and family will be received Saturday, September 21, 2024 from 1:00 to 4:00pm, followed by a short memorial service at Dicken Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 323 Middle Avenue, Elyria.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Camp I.D.E.A.S., 1524 South Lakeview Blvd, Lorain, Ohio 44052.

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