Lois Vernier

Lois Ann (Mertz) Vernier, age 64, of Milaca, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on June 13, 2025.

Lois was born on June 8, 1961, in Waconia, MN, to Adam and Dorothea (Baer) Mertz. She spent her early years in Milaca and later raised her family in Maple Lake before returning to the Milaca area, where she lived for the past two decades.

A hard worker and natural leader, Lois had a long and accomplished career with Subway. She began as a store manager and, through dedication and passion, worked her way up to become a District Manager—a role she held with pride for nearly 30 years.

Outside of work, Lois found joy and peace on her beloved farm. She poured her heart into planting, caring for her horses and chickens, and embracing her role as the “crazy outdoor cat lady” — a title she wore with laughter and love.

Lois’s home was always open to friends and family, whether for a spontaneous porch chat or an impromptu late-night card game that went well past her usual bedtime. She created a space of comfort, warmth, and genuine connection.

Lois is survived by her loving daughters, Stacy Atkins (Corey Frericks) and Samantha Banta (Joshua Hutchens); her cherished grandchildren: Isabella (Collin), Paige, Destiny (Jade), Noah, Liberty, Cody, Amelia, Sebastian, and Colten; her siblings: Adam Mertz, Margaret Thompson, Don Mertz, and Bob Leidholdt; and many extended family members and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Adam and Dorothea Mertz; sister and brother-in-law, Phyllis and Kenneth Geisler; and siblings Eleanor Gab, Ellina Barth, Rollie Mertz, Quentin Mertz, Allen Mertz, Ella Schneider, and Donald Leidholdt.

Lois will be remembered for her strength, her kindness, her sense of humor, and her unwavering love for her family, animals, and the simple joys of life.

A celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, June 28th from 1-4 PM at Lois's House, 16534 110th Street, Foreston, MN. Everyone is welcome to come and share your favorite memories of her.