Maria Josefa Mertens (Lyen) of Tillsonburg passed away peacefully with loving family by her side on Tuesday, January 28th, 2020 in her 83rd year. Maria was born on July 28th, 1937 to the late Louisa and Jozef Lyen in Zandhoven, Belgium. Maria is predeceased by her loving husband of 43 years, Ludo Mertens (December 1, 2004). Maria and Ludo lived a wonderful life together in Leamington, Ontario where they worked very hard on their farm. Maria’s passion was for travelling the world with Ludo. She had countless cherished memories of their many adventures together. Maria is survived by her sister, Simonne Dockx and the late Jozef Dockx. She is predeceased by her brother Walter Lyen. Maria is survived by nieces and nephews, great nieces and great nephews whom she loved very much in both Canada and Belgium. She also cherished her brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, both predeceased and surviving, in Belgium.

In keeping with Maria’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at a later date at St. Michael’s Parish followed by Interment at Erie Memorial Gardens, both in Leamington, Ontario. Donations in Maria’s memory to the “Alexandra Hospital Foundation, Ingersoll” would be appreciated by the family and may be made through the MAURICE J. VERHOEVE FUNERAL HOMES – BURIAL AND CREMATION SERVICES INC., 40 Queen Street, Langton (519-842-4238) entrusted with cremation arrangements.