Karl Heinz Mertling

Karl Heinz Mertling passed away suddenly at North Bay Regional Health Centre on October 15, 2020. He was in his 92nd year. Beloved husband of Madelaine; father of Brigitte (Tom), Claire (Mark), Michelle (Kevin), and Joanne (Victor); proud grandfather of Jordan, Emilia, Christopher (Jody) , Madison, Jason (Ashley), Stephanie (Stigevigen) and great grandfather of Danika. Heinz was born in Fritzlar, Germany to Heinrich and Frieda Mertling. He is pre-deceased by his parents and his brothers Klaus and Albert, and survived by his sister Elvi. At the age of 29 he left for North America, settling in Toronto. He grew to love the outdoors and spent many summers travelling across Ontario camping, fishing and swimming. In 1968, he moved his family to North Bay and over the next 10 years he went on to develop additional passions for cross-country skiing, making smoked meats and sausages in his backyard smokehouse, and nights out at the Germania Club. In 1979, Karl met Madelaine and together they began a new life in the Niagara area. They later wed and he pursued various other interests, becoming a wine aficionado and a proud member of the Opimian society, a top-notch home chef, taxidermist, woodworker and gardener extraordinaire. After he retired, they moved back to Northern Ontario, living for many years in Sturgeon Falls and more recently, in North Bay. Karl, Heinz, Daddy, Opa….we salute you and raise a glass of fine wine to you and your many achievements. You have made us eternally proud of the amazing man you are. We will continue to hold you close in our hearts from now until the end of time. Prost! Santé! Ich liebe dich. As per Karl’s wishes cremation has taken place at Whispering Pines Funeral Home.