06/20/2019
John Aaron Mertz was born October 13, 1987 in Des Moines, Iowa the son of John and Marla (Hill) Mertz.
He graduated from Knoxville High School with the Class of 2006. John spent many years in Boy Scouts. One of his greatest accomplishments was creating a replica Bald Eagle nest that traveled throughout the State of Iowa to many birding events, Bald Eagle Day events and the Iowa State Fair. He was awarded a “Keepers of the Land” award from the Iowa Dept. of Natural Resources.
John attended Kirkwood Community College where he studied culinary arts. He enjoyed cooking and has worked in various kitchens.
Most recently, John worked as a landscaper, he thoroughly enjoyed working outside and use his creative and artistic talents in landscape design. John’s greatest joy in life was being a father to his beautiful daughter, Harper.
John passed away Thursday, June 20, 2019 at his home at the age of 31 years.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Dr. Frank & Faye Mertz and James Hill.
Those left to cherish John’s memory include his daughter, Harper; parents, John and Marla Mertz; brother, James and wife Caitlin and their children, Nolan and Avery; grandmother, Lorraine Hill of Milo and many other family members and friends.
John has been cremated and a memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family for Harper’s future education.