William Schroeder Mertle Jr. 1942-2022

William (Bill) Schroeder Mertle, Jr. passed on December 23, 2022 at 80 years old, ending his battle with a terminal illness. He went in peace and departed with prayers from his family and church. Bill Mertle was the first born child of William and Edna Mertle in Rockford, Illinois on July 23rd, 1942 . He was joined with his brother, Thomas Mertle two years later.

They then moved to Fort Bragg in the early 50’s, where Bill went to school, worked, and raised a family. Bill Mertle was called to service in 1960, days after his high school graduation where he served in the Navy for 2 years and was stationed over seas in Japan. Upon his return he went to work for the Union Lumber Mill and then Georgia Pacific Corporation. In the mid 70’s, he found himself in need of a career and a partner, he and Gary Gunnar started a business that would soon be named Fort Bragg Electric, Inc. This was his life’s work and he ran this business until he retired April 1st, 2018. Bill was a man of family, service, hard work, and duty. He was dedicated to his family at home, at work, and in the community. He cared deeply for each aspect and has made a lasting impression on all. Bill Mertle is survived by his wife of 43 years, Rita Mertle; Brother, Tom Mertle, his children: Mark Mertle, Stacy Isom, Jeff Mertle, Paul Mertle, and Deanna Shaw. His Son and Daughter in laws: Kimberly Mertle, Jeff Isom, Brite Mertle, and Johnny Shaw. His grandchildren: Natalieann Isom, Brandon Isom, Jamie Mertle, Justin Mertle, Jaron Mertle, Abby Mertle, Emma Mertle, Allisyn Shaw, and Carson Shaw. His nieces and nephews: Mike Mertle, Jennifer Clark, Angela Silva, Lisa Alcala and their spouses and children. Finally, his best friend: Paul Clark, sister-in-laws: Karen Mertle and Toni Clark, the mother of his oldest boys Susan Garrett, his Fort Bragg Electric family and members of the community. Rest in peace Bill Mertle we will carry your work and legacy into the future.

Funeral will be held on January 6th, 2022 at Our Lady of Good Council Church in Fort Bragg. Rosary will begin at 10:00 am. Catholic Funeral Mass immediately following, Graveside services following the mass. Public memorial will be held at 1:00 pm at the Our Lady of Good Council hall. Please bring a dessert to share.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation in name of Bill Mertle to Mendocino Coast Hospitality House or the Fort Bragg Food Bank.