Donald J. Mertes

Donald J. Mertes, 85, of Moorhead, MN, passed away Wednesday, July 17, 2024, in Sanford Medical Center, Fargo, ND.

Donald Jacob Mertes, along with his twin brother, Ronald, were born September 2, 1938, the son of Jacob and Leona (Homan) Mertes, in Breckenridge, MN. He grew up in Mantador, ND, and graduated from Hankinson (ND) High School. Following his graduation, Donald enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, serving alongside his twin brother, Ronald. 

Upon completing his time in the service, Donald moved to Baker, MN, and began his career as a forklift operator for Super Valu in Fargo. On June 22, 1963, he was united in marriage to Ann Griffin in Moorhead. Together they established their home in Moorhead where they raised their three children, Jeffrey, Lori, and Randall while Donald dedicated 38 years to Super Valu before retiring. Additionally, Donald also owned and operated a TV Repair Shop, alongside his godson and nephew, Richard Krauth for a few years. 

He was a member of St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church and 3rd and 4th Degree Member of the Knights of Columbus. He enjoyed palm braiding at Easter time. He loved sharing this skill with others, like his father taught him, including other parishioners, friends and especially his daughter, Lori and sharing his talent with them.

For 41 years, Donald and Ann spent their summers at their cabin in West McDonald Lake, near Dent, MN, where many memories were made. Family held a special place in Donald’s heart, and he found immense joy gathering with loved ones. In addition to time with family, he enjoyed fishing, taking many trips to fish in Canada, and playing cribbage with family and friends. 

Don is survived by his children, Jeffrey, Moorhead, Lori Fearing, Fargo, and Randall, Moorhead. Don also survived by grandsons, Jason (Casey) Fearing, West Fargo, Tyler Fearing, Fargo; great-grandchildren Liam and Everett Fearing; sisters, Donna Fugere, San Deigo, CA, Pat (Charlie) Orn, Lisbon, ND, Rita Mertes, Apple Valley, MN, and Jeri Bean (Gordy Campbell), Eau Claire, WI; brothers, James Mertes, Sr., Hudson, FL, and Ronald (Sandy) Mertes, Barnesville, MN; and numerous nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife of 58 years, Ann; sister, Rosemary Mertes; brother-in-law, Don Fugere; sister-in-law, Elizabeth Mertes; and nephew and godson, Richard Krauth. 

A Visitation for Donald will be held on Monday, July 22, 2024, from 5:00 PM until 6:30 PM, with a 6:30 PM Prayer Service in St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, Moorhead. Visitation will continue beginning at 10:00 AM, Tuesday, July 23, 2024, followed by his Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM, in St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church. Donald will be laid to rest in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery, Moorhead. 

(Korsmo Funeral and Cremation Service, Moorhead, MN)