Jon J. Mertis

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 Hospital and later at Clarks Summit State Hospital. 

He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend to all who knew him. He enjoyed sports.  He was an avid runner for many years, loved playing basketball, softball and watching Yankees baseball. He was also an active member of the JCC, Kingston and the Albright United Methodist Church, Wilkes-Barre, for years.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife, Loretta (Lolly) Mertis.

He will be sadly missed by his daughters, Shelly Mertis and husband, Murshed Imam, and Sherry Mertis and husband, William Krause, grandson, Tristan Imam, a sister, Ginny Callaghan, nieces, nephews, cousins and his many friends.

Funeral Services will be held Wednesday April 1, 2026, at 10:00 AM from the Daniel J Hughes Funeral & Cremation Service, 617 Carey Avenue, Wilkes-Barre.

Interment will follow in Oak Lawn Cemetery, Hanover Twp.

A visitation for family and friends will be Tuesday March 31, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the SPCA of Luzerne County, 524 East Main Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702.

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