Obituary of Carmen Mertens

Glenville - Carmen Mertens died and passed into glory with her savior Jesus on Tuesday, April 29, 2014, with her loving family at her side. Carmen was born October 29, 1932 in Schenectady, NY. Her parents were Paul and Lucia LaMarca who emigrated from Italy. She graduated from Draper High and was married to her loving husband, Phillip Mertens, who now survives her. Carmen met Phillip when they both worked at KAPL. Carmen's passion for helping neglected children led her to work for the Charlie Program in the 70s and 80s where she was able, along with her strong Christian faith, to touch many hurting children. Carmen was active in her church as a Deaconess, where she served for years, as well as providing transportation to women who had need. She is survived by her loving husband, Phillip, of 51 years; her four sons, Daniel and Paul Capobianco of Georgia, Matthew Mertens of Vermont and Mark Mertens of Glenville, NY. Also surviving are seven grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and brother, Gino LaMarca of Ridgecrest, CA. She was predeceased by her brother, Nick LaMarca and sister, Lina Meaney, both of Schenectady, NY. Funeral services will be held at First Presbyterian Church, 209 Union St., Schenectady, NY 12305, which is on lower Union St. in the Stockade, on Monday, May 5th at 11 a.m. Visitation will precede the service on Monday at church from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Interment in Park View Cemetery with a light luncheon to follow back at First Presbyterian Church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the First Presbyterian Church Memorial Fund.