Kathryn Marie Mertzke

Born on August 10, 1946, in Belleville, IL, Kathryn was the beloved daughter of the late Daniel Joseph Guetterman and Goldianne Margaret (nee Johnson) Altenberger.

She devoted her life to her family and to creating a home filled with love, laughter, and celebration. She supported her husband in his work by keeping the books for the family trucking company, all while raising her children and taking them on countless adventures to new places. A wonderful wife and mother, she had a heart of gold and was known for mothering everyone — from her own children to neighbors’ kids and friends who always felt welcomed in her care.

She loved crafting, painting, and swimming, and was always finding new ways to express her creativity. She bowled on a league for many years and was an enthusiastic member of a long-standing card club. She also enjoyed yard sales, crossword puzzles, and spending time with the people she loved most.

She was especially known for her parties and celebrations, particularly at Christmastime, when her home was filled with joy, decorations, and laughter. She also began a beloved Tuesday night tradition: while her husband attended auctions, she and a group of ladies would try a new restaurant each week. Even after she became ill, her friends lovingly continued the tradition by visiting her every Tuesday, showing the same devotion she had always given to others.

Her compassion extended beyond people to animals as well, with a special fondness for peacocks. She was a faithful member of Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Collinsville, IL. She will be remembered as a devoted wife, a great mom, a loyal friend, and a woman whose love, humor, and generous spirit made life brighter for everyone around her.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded by her brothers: Daniel Guetterman, and Tommy Gutterman; and sister in law, Ruth Guetterman.

She is survived by her loving husband, David A. Mertzke, whom she married June 15, 1968; three children: David (Jody) Mertzke of Troy, IL, Pamela (Nathan) Speights of Frisco, TX, and Tammy Mertzke of Collinsville, IL; seven grandchildren: Danielle (Robert “Robbie”) Bindrim, Justin Mertzke, Dominic Mertzke, Ethan Speights, London Speights, Austin Schmig, and Kolten Tindall; two great-grandchildren: Jet and Mila; brother, Kenny (Peggy) Guetterman; six sisters: Dianne Couch, Nancy (John) Hunter, Sandy Mathenia, Joyce (Harold) Knoth, Robin Guetterman, and Karen Santen; sister in law, Mary Guetterman; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

A visitation will take place on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, from 3pm to 6pm at Lake View Funeral Home in Fairview Heights, IL.

Funeral Service will follow at 6pm with Reverend Dale Skeesick officiating.

Memorial donations may be made to Got Your Six Support Dogs.