Francis Mertens, 85 years, of Sacramento, California died Wednesday, June 23, 2021 in California as a result of a pedestrian accident. He was born June 12, 1936 in Fort Madison, Iowa, a son of Christian Francis and Mary Margaret (Neuweg) Mertens.

Francis owned and operated Belvedere Auto Repairs for more than 50 years. He was a fun loving guy who loved to laugh. He enjoyed going to the coffee shop and made friends quickly especially with children.

He is survived by five siblings: Harriet Coster of Sacramento, California; Alfred "Ike" Mertens of New London, Iowa; Paul Mertens of Fort Madison, Iowa; John Mertens of Houghton, Iowa; and Jeanne (Gary) Kos of Washington, Iowa; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Dan Mertens.

His family will greet friends from 9:30 - 10:30 am Friday, July 30, 2021 at St. John's Catholic Church, Houghton, Iowa. Mass of Christian Burial will follow and begin at 10:30 am Friday at the church with Reverend Dan Dorau as Celebrant. Burial will be at St. John's Cemetery, Houghton, Iowa.
A memorial has been established for St. John's Church.  Contributions may be left at the church during the Mass or be mailed to Barr-Holtkamp Funeral Home, 412 Ave C, P.O. Box 247, West Point, Iowa 52656. Sign an online guest book and send a message to the Mertens family at www.barrholtkampfuneralhome.com.