Randall Louis Mertes

Randall Louis Mertes, a brilliant mind with a wry wit and a heart of gold, left this world on October 28, 2024. Born on September 24, 1962, in Tipton, Missouri, Randall was a true original—known for his quick humor, his astute insights, and the kind of honesty only the truest friends can offer. He leaves behind not only laughter and unforgettable stories but also a touch of well-earned sarcasm that will be fondly remembered. 

Randall enjoyed many years biking and swimming, becoming a professional triathlete in his earlier years, but his athletic prowess pales in comparison to the strength and resilience he demonstrated as a two-time cancer survivor. He retired from a career in the logistics field, working for various companies within the vendor community. 

His greatest love and joy was his wife, Penny, with whom he shared 35 wonderful years filled with laughter, adventure, trials, and unwavering devotion. Their marriage was a testament to enduring love. His children, Evan, Erin, and Ellen, were the pride of his life, each one carrying forward his humor, strength, and light. 

Randall loved being deeply involved in his community and found joy in volunteering at the Trifest for MS, standing in line for the latest Ozark Beer Co. release, being active with the local swim and biking groups, and tending to his yard. His practical approach to life, combined with his passion for refining processes, kept him consistently tinkering on new projects.

Preceded in death by his father, Marvin Anthony Mertes, Randall is survived by his mother, Diana (Fischer) Mertes; his beloved wife, Penny (Pflueger) Mertes; his son, Evan Brant Mertes, and fiancée Megan Floyd; his daughters, Erin Elizabeth Mertes and Ellen Nicole (Mertes) Kovalenko, and her husband, Pavel Kovalenko. He is also survived by his siblings, Michael Anthony Mertes, Gregory Gerard Mertes and wife Jenny, Todd Allen Mertes and wife Laurie, Michelle Margaret (Mertes) White and husband Ralph, and Jennifer Anne (Mertes) Reed and husband Jeremy. He will also be fondly remembered by numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family. 

A celebration of his life will be held on November 4, 2024, at 2:30 p.m. at The Chapel at Osage House, 381 Pace Ln, Cave Springs, AR 72718. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Rampy MS Research Foundation, honoring his commitment to supporting others through volunteer work. 

Though his presence will be deeply missed, Randall’s spirit lives on in every shared laugh, every clever remark, and every act of kindness he inspired. He leaves us all with a bit more laughter in our hearts—just as he would have wanted.