Rally for Peg Mertes in Ray's Memory

I am so proud to make this tribute for Ray Mertes. He was a gifted and talented man. Ray touched many lives in and beyond our Trempealeau community.

If you ever found yourself next to Ray Mertes—whether in a boat, at the bait shop, or just around town—you’d know it never took long before you were wrapped up in one of his stories. And the best part? He had a lot of them. The kind of stories you didn’t forget. The kind you’d find yourself retelling, laughing just as hard the tenth time as you did the first time. (Kristin wrote)

We have so many wonderful memories over the past 46+ years with Ray, Peg, and family. I feel very blessed to have had the game nights with the Mertes’s and the Nemitz’s. On weekends, we would get together playing Pictionary (he was an artist), which made it challenging for whomever was his partner (Peg). Or the Trivial Pursuit game that we often played while our young children hung out together. We also experienced the fishing adventures and camping experiences as a family. Many memories, many fun times, and many tears. Friends rallied around the Mertes family after Ray’s heart attack, LVAD training, and heart transplant. Scary times for everyone.

Ray was a 20+ year heart transplant recipient. He received the Gift of Life, which was truly a blessing. Ray and his family are eternally grateful.

However, being a heart transplant recipient made it impossible for Ray to be eligible for life insurance.

Peg was selfless. She carried the health insurance and worked two jobs to be able to afford the anti-rejection drugs that Ray needed to survive.

Unfortunately, Peg’s health has declined over the years. She is no longer able to drive or do daily chores. Peg is walker/wheelchair bound. Ray provided the care for Peg that she needed at home: cooking, laundry, grocery shopping, to name a few.

I am asking people to give from the heart to help Peg financially with the final expenses of the cost of the cremation and any additional medical expenses. I want us to show her how important it is to come together as a community, to help alleviate the stress of a financial burden during this very difficult time. I am asking people to rally again and make this fundraiser a success. Thank you in advance for your help.

Ray and his family are such an inspiration to others. They have shown us how to take care of each other without wavering.

(Written by Kristin)

On February 28, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones, Ray set down his rod and reel and paintbrush for the last time. But true to form, he left us with more than a few fish tales to remember him by.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 22, 2025, from 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. at the Centerville Curling Club.