James A. Mertz, 85, of Elyria passed away Wednesday April 19, 2023 at Avon Oaks Nursing Home following a long illness. He was born November 17, 1937 in Oberlin and was an Elyria area resident for most of his life. Jim was a member of the Lorain County Sherriff's Office for 27 years, retiring as the Lorain County Sherriff. He served his country in the United States Army, was a member of Grace Lutheran Church in Elyria and enjoyed fly fishing and was an accomplished marksman. Survivors include his wife of 34 years, Wendy (nee-Beal); daughter, Julie (Kevin) Mobley; brothers, Ronald (Janet) Mertz and Gerald Mertz; sister, Marilou Mertz and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Mildred Mertz and a brother, Alvin Mertz. The family will receive friends on Saturday May 6, 2023 from 10:30 a.m. until the time of a memorial service at 12:30 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church 9685 East River Road, Elyria, where members of the Lorain County Sherriff's Office will stand honor guard. The Rev. Robert Weldon, pastor, will Officiate. Private inurnment will take place at a later date at Brookdale Cemetery, Elyria. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the charity of the donor's choice. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Laubenthal-Mercado Funeral Home and Cremation Services 38475 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Elyria. Online condolences may be expressed at www.laubenthalmercado.com