Mertz, William C.

William C. Mertz (1872 April 12-1944 Aug. 18) was born and educated in Carrollton (Mich.). His family moved to Saginaw (Mich.) when he was young. He worked at Parsons & Holt, a dry goods store, 1893-1897. Mertz was the Director and later, member of the Board, of the St. Charles State Bank, 1911- He also worked in the post office for four years, and was later appointed Postmaster in 1896, serving in the position for 16 years. In 1912, Mertz operated a five and dime business, eventually operating four stores for over 15 years. After selling the stores he was appointed U.S. Deputy Marshall, a position he served in for five years. Later in life he worked in real estate and as a field representative for the State Board of Tax Administrators, 1939-1942. Mertz retired in 1942. He organized various youth groups, included a young men's group in the First Baptist Church (Saginaw, Mich.) in 1913, and was instrumental in founding Boy Scout Troop 22 of the same church. For his efforts Mertz received the Silver Beaver and Life Veteran Scout awards. Politically, he was a Republican. Mertz married Nellie Conklin (d. 1944 Aug. 18), who was a charter member of the St. Charles Order of Eastern Star Chapter 313 and vice-chairman of the Saginaw County Republican Committee during the 1930s. (Information from the collection.).