Jon J. Mertis, 80, of Wilkes-Barre passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 25 2026, surrounded by his loving family at home. Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late Harry ‘Pete’ and Jane (Brink) Mertis.   He was a graduate of Elmer L Meyers High School and earned a bachelor’s degree from Muhlenberg College.  He also served his country proudly in the US Navy.   He worked for many years as a social worker with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania at Retreat State Hospit