Bernard Edward Merten

Bernard Edward Merten, age 83, of Toeterville, Iowa, passed away Sunday, May 10, 2026 at Mercy One Hospital in Mason City, Iowa.

Bernie was born August 23, 1942, on a farm North of Adams, MN to Philip and Leonilla (Mullenbach) Merten. He was the youngest of six children.

He married Eline Earhart on April 18, 1970, and to this union eight children were born. They made their home on a dairy farm four miles North of St. Ansgar, Iowa. He was a lifelong farmer and drove a feed truck for 17 years.

Bernie enjoyed visiting with family and friends, dancing to polka music and working in his shop.

He is survived by his wife Eline, his children, Karen (Mark) Havlovic and their daughter Gabrielle, Jason (Christa) Merten and their children Stevan (Julia), Sophia (Ryan), Leah, Eline, and Daniel, Nancy (Jeffrey) Schaefer and her children Nicole (Andrew), Blake (Anna) and Brody (Claire), Jane Merten, Patti Merten, Philip (Julianna) Merten and their children Layne, Cormac and Chase, Ross (Mandy) Merten and their children Brooklyn, Lucas and Jackson. Great Grandchildren Kira, Luke, Jayce, Jadon, Abigail, August and Lilias. One sister Marcella Bissen. Many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, 3 brothers, 1 sister, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law and his oldest son Leon.

Bernie's energy, drive and ambition will be missed by all.

Bernie's body was donated to Mayo Clinic Research Group and there will be no funeral services per his wishes.

Please forward any condolences to P.O. Box 206, St. Ansgar, IA 50472.

Hoff Celebrations - Champion Chapel of Osage is assisting the family with arrangements.