Orefield Truck Driver Keith Mertz Dies at 69 After 30 Years of Marriage
Keith A. Mertz, a 69-year-old Orefield resident, passed away on September 17, 2026, at St. Luke's University Health Network in Bethlehem. He was a truck driver for Harrisburg News before retiring and had worked at Home Depot for the last five years. Mertz celebrated his 30th wedding anniversary with his wife, Karen Lynn (Scheese), just three months prior to his death.
Born in Allentown, Mertz was a son of the late Arlene M. (Ruch) and Earl W. Mertz. He graduated from William Allen High School in 1975 and was a member of the United Church of Christ Greenawalds. In his free time, he enjoyed bowling at the Rose Bowl.
Mertz is survived by his wife, daughter Kathryn I. Cotto (Javier L.) of Wimauma, Florida, as well as several siblings and their families. He was preceded in death by a sister, Brenda Kuncio, and two brother-in-laws, William Diehl and Elaine's husband.
A funeral service will be held at the Heintzelman-Stephens Funeral Home on October 3rd, with visitation beginning at 10 AM and the service starting at 11 AM. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the United Church of Christ Greenawalds or The Sanctuary at Haafsville.