Giovanna (Genee') A. Mertens

Giovanna A. Mertens, affectionately known as Genee', passed away on September 6, 2024, in Saint Peters, Missouri, at the age of 73. Born on November 12, 1950, in Saint Louis, Missouri to August Frank and Sarina (Amato) Sansone, Sr.,  she was a beacon of kindness, embodying a positive spirit that resonated deeply with everyone she encountered.

Giovanna graduated from Normandy High School in 1969, and soon after, she married her high school sweetheart, Robert "Bob" Mertens, on March 21, 1970. Together, they created a bond that lasted 54 beautiful years, filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Giovanna dedicated her life to her family, and her proudest accomplishments were being a loving wife, mother, and nona.

She was a devoted mother to her son, Keith Mertens, and daughter, Giovanna von Nida. The joy of her life also came from her five grandchildren: Judah von Nida, Ammiel von Nida, Gian Mertens, Iyahna von Nida, and Eli Mertens, who brought her great happiness. She had a deep love of animals, which lasted a lifetime saving many dogs and cats.  

Giovanna's career as a real estate agent was marked by her strong work ethic and personal touch, but she also found joy in teaching ceramics and art, serving as a cub scout leader, and cooking delicious meals for her family and friends. Known for her famous Christmas cookies, she touched many lives through her generosity and culinary talents. Her personality was a beautiful blend of kindness, humor, and strength, making her one of the most upbeat individuals anyone could have the pleasure of knowing.  Her laughter was infectious to everyone around her.  She was a member of Misfits for Jesus Church in Warrenton, Missouri.  

Giovanna is survived by her beloved husband, Robert Mertens; son, Keith (Shu-yi Lin) Mertens; daughter, Giovanna A. (Gabe) von Nida; five treasured grandchildren; two sisters, Nora (David) Sansone Hoover and Gae Lasorda; two brothers, Andy (Leslie) Sansone and August Frank Sansone, Jr.; as well as a host of other family members and friends who will cherish her memory.

She was preceded in death by her father, August Frank Sansone, Sr.; mother, Sarina (Amato) Sansone; sister-in-law, Mary Sansone; and brother-in-law, Joseph "Smokey" Lasorda.

Visitation for Giovanna will take place on September 15, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM and on September 16, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Newcomer Funeral Home, St. Peters, Missouri. A funeral service will follow on September 16, 2024 at 11:00 AM at the same location.

Giovanna A. Mertens will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her, and her legacy of love and generosity will continue to inspire those left behind.

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