Carol A. Mertens

Carol A. Mertens, age 91, a resident of Manitowoc, entered eternal life while surrounded by her family on Sunday, August 16, 2026 at her home.

Carol was born on January 9, 1935 in Two Rivers to the late Leo and Marcella (Funk) Samz. After graduating from Washington High School in Two Rivers, Carol married Wayne James Mertens at St. Luke’s Catholic Church in Two Rivers on January 17, 1953. Carol and Wayne were married for 71 years. Wayne preceded Carol in death on October 14, 2024. After high school, Carol went on to work at Mirro Aluminum while attending LTC, where she received her degree in secretarial management. Carol began her working career at First National Bank in Manitowoc, and ultimately retired from Manitowoc Public Utilities as office manager. Although Carol took no credit for this, she was proud of the fact that she supported her family at the time her husband Wayne founded Manitowoc Tool & Machining. Throughout the years, she was active in many organizations. Carol was a member of St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Manitowoc Yacht Club, Branch River Country Club, and the Red Hat Society. She enjoyed serving her community by volunteering at Rahr West, electoral polling stations, and Holy Family Hospital. Carol enjoyed being part of the “Gourmet Group” and a ladies sheepshead group of five where they played monthly for 50 years. She loved home decorating - both inside and out, cooking, and going to the family cottage at Kelly Lake. Carol lived for traveling and went across the world with her husband, family and friends. She continually maintained and carried herself with a positive attitude and grace. Above all, she was a loving and devoted wife, mother, and grandmother that provided many holiday celebrations bringing everyone together.

Survivors include Carol’s children, Cathy (Rick) Paulson and Scott (Laurie) Mertens, all of Manitowoc; two granddaughters, Bryanna (Max) Ashenbrener and Lexie (Ryan) Richter; three step grandchildren, Arielle, Bianca and Caitlin; five great grandchildren, Paisley, Brecken, and Bickley Ashenbrener; and Graham and Camrynn Richter; step grandchild, Franklin; sister, Gloria Schmidt, Manitowoc; brother-in-law, Donald (Marlene) Mertens, Manitowoc; also many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Leo and Marcella Samz; husband, Wayne James Mertens; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Raymond and Constance Mertens; brother, Donald (Gloria) Samz; and brother-in-law, Jerry Schmidt.

Private family services were held at Calvary Mausoleum Chapel on Wednesday, August 26, 2026 with Rev. William O’Brien officiating. Online condolences may be sent to the family visiting www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com

Carol’s family would like to extend their thanks and appreciation to Deb, Andrea, Brenda, Kim, Jodi, Carrie, and Melissa for all the care, friendship, and love they provided. Also, special thanks to all the staff of Sharon S. Richardson hospice for their care and support.

The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, North 11th and St. Clair streets, Manitowoc assisted the family with funeral arrangements.