Dennis "Duke" Mertins

Dennis Ray "Duke" Mertins was born March 4, 1951 in Helena Montana and passed away on November 11, 2009 after a courageous battle with cancer. In 1954 he moved with his family to Missoula where Dennis resided for the remainder of his life. Dennis attended Hellgate High School during which time he was a pitcher for the local legion baseball league and where he earned the nickname "Duke". Upon graduation in 1969, Dennis joined the US Army and served 2 tours in Vietnam. Well known for his keen sense of humor, he kept those around him happy and laughing, even during his illness. Dennis was blessed with very special lifelong friendships. He is survived by his children Chad, Cory, Nicholas, Trevor and Justin; seven grandchildren; brothers Ted, Tom, Michael and Larry; sisters Beverly, Ila and Pamela; special friend Karleen Kennedy; and a large and loving extended family. Dennis was preceded in death by his father, Theodore and his mother, Katherine. Services to honor Dennis' life will be scheduled in the near future. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or Marcus Daly Hospice.