Rodney Mertens

Rodney David Mertens, 63, of Crosslake, MN passed away Wednesday, May 17, 2017 at Essentia Health-St. Joseph’s Hospital in Brainerd, MN. Private family services will be held.

Rodney was born May 7, 1954 to David and Violet (Mapes) Mertens in Bertha, MN. He attended Staples High School and Wadena Vocational Technical College for the telephone technician trade. Rodney worked for 30+ years at Crosslake Telephone. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, motorcycle rides and working on his ’67 Challenger.

Rodney is survived by his sister, Gloria (Dave) Perfetti; nephew, Joshua Perfetti; nieces, Kelli (Jason) Welter, Marnie (Matt) Galston, Brittne (Andrew) Gabrielson; and several great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, David and Violet. Arrangements have been entrusted to Brenny Funeral Chapel in Staples, MN.