MERTEL, WILLIAM "BILL"

WILLIAM "BILL" MERTEL, passed away on June 26, 2014. Beloved husband of 55 years to Shirley (nee Longshore), a loving father to Lori Lenzer (George) and Lisa Mertel. Devoted grandpa to Kylie Lenzer. Brother to Zora Sanchez and Mildred Mertel. Private services. Let it be noted that Malloy Memorial in conjunction with the Cleveland Memorial Society extended onto me and my family outstanding service. Since I thought it might be cool to write my own obit, let me begin by expressing my gratitude for being able to associate with so many wonderful teacher colleagues during my tenure at Thomas Edison, East High and Beachwood schools, as well as all the students who attended my classes. With a special shout out to teacher companion and a true Renaissance Man, Don Prusha, who once sacrificed all he could. Of course a genuine thank you is extended to all the doctors, nurses and aides of the Cleveland Clinic who did what they could to delay this obituary. Next a sincere acknowledgement to the Longshore family for their friendship and caring over the years. Also a thank you to George, Sr., Julia, George, Jr., Kylie and our apartment friends for their stand by support. Thank you to Millie and Zora for your ongoing concern. As for Lori and Lisa, your help during the span of my (and your moms) months of illness cannot be measured. However, far more important was the love and joy you brought into our lives across the stretch of years. And as always my thoughts are reserved for Shirley; my singular love. So with that in mind let me take the moment, of only with printed word, to express you this one final time… I love you, Shirley. It is the family’s wish that memorial contributions be made to Cleveland Clinic Hospice at Home, PO Box 931517, Cleveland, OH 44193-1655.