Barbara Mertens

Barbara (Barb) Mertens passed away on October 2, 2020 after many years of failing health at Sanford Hospital in Fargo, ND. Barb was born on March 1, 1957 to Fredrick and Frances Mertens in Staples, MN. She is survived by her mother; her children Melissa Cassell (Ryan), Jordan Mertens, and Nicholas Mertens; her partner of 22 years Jeff Lorentz; her grandchildren Chloe and Bianca her siblings Susan Weizel, Michael Mertens (Pamala), and Paul Mertens; her step-children Angela Lorentz and Alexander Lorentz; many, many friends; and three well loved cats. She is predeceased by her father. Barb was a loving mother, a devote Catholic, and a wonderful friend. She was a giver and loved helping people. She lived in Wadena, MN for the last 27 years of her life and, during that time, she worked at many local businesses and made friends everywhere she went. To Barb, everyone she loved was family. Her children’s friends often called her “mom” and considered her house to be a second home. She loved to cook and was known around town, and in her family, for her potato salad. Barb brought joy to so many lives. When advised to “remember the good times” her mother said “with Barb, there were only good times.” She will be deeply missed. Private services will be held. Donations and condolences for the family can be made through Taylor Funeral Home in Staples, MN. Arrangements are with the Taylor Funeral Home in Staples.