Carol A. Mertz.

Carol A. Mertz, 81, of Kutztown, passed away Thursday, January 22, 2026. She was the wife of Larry L. Mertz, with whom she shared 62 years of marriage.

Born in Allentown, she was the daughter of the late George and Marion (Stein) Fitzgerald. Carol was a graduate of Kutztown Area High School, Class of 1962.

Growing up, Carol sang in the church choir for many years and taught Sunday School at St. John’s UCC in Kutztown. She spent the greater part of her life working side by side with Larry on their family farm. For nearly 50 years, she did it all at Whirlwind Acres—meticulously maintaining the farm’s records, working in the fields, and milking the cows daily.

In her free time, Carol enjoyed tending her flowerbeds, cooking, and feeding everyone. She had a special love for children, and her greatest joy was spending time with family and helping to raise three generations.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her sisters, Gloria (David) Rice and Katherine (Paul) O’Mara; her children, Michael (Melanie) Mertz, Steven (Stacey) Mertz, and Michelle Mertz; her grandchildren, Allan (Kate), Chad (Lauren), Zachary (Haley), Evan (Amanda), and Tyler (fiancé Emma); and her great-grandchildren, Kaelynn, Averi, Elliot, Casey, Maverick, Harper, Georgia, and Haisley.

In addition to her parents, Carol was preceded in death by her loving brother, Dennis. A celebration of life will be held March 29, 2026 at the Lyons Fire Company. Visitation with the family 1pm-2pm, service at 2pm.