Obituary: Former Town of Porter Supervisor Mert Wiepert passes

Merton K. Wiepert, longtime councilman and supervisor for the Town of Porter, co-owner of Wiepert’s Service Station, and devoted family man, peacefully entered into eternal rest after a lengthy illness on Sept. 16, 2024. He was 85 years old.

He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, honesty, compassion, and a life built on love for his family and community.

Mert, as he was affectionately known, served the residents of the Town of Porter for many decades, playing a pivotal role in shaping the growth and development of the town, while also running the beloved service station that became a cornerstone of the local community.

As the co-owner of Wiepert’s Service Station for several years with his brother, Gerald, Merton earned a reputation for his honesty, hard work, and friendly demeanor. Customers knew they could rely on him not just for expert service, but also for a friendly conversation in his green swivel chair. His business was more than just a place for vehicle repairs – it was also a gathering spot for the community, where Mert's dedication to helping others was as evident as it was in his public service.

Above all else, Mert was a devoted family man who cherished his role as a husband, father to three girls, and a grandfather. His love and dedication to his family were constants in life, and he took great pride in passing down the values of integrity, hard work, and kindness to the next generations.

Throughout his tenure as councilman and later supervisor for the Town of Porter, Merton was known for his unwavering integrity, compassion, and tireless advocacy on behalf of his community. His leadership extended beyond just fulfilling the duties of his office. He was a trusted adviser, a neighbor to all, and a steadfast advocate for the values that made the Town of Porter a special place to live.

Born in Niagara County, and raised in the Town of Porter, Merton was deeply rooted in his town’s history and culture. His love for the area was evident in everything he did, from managing the town's affairs with efficiency and care, to supporting local initiatives that enriched the lives of its residents. He worked tirelessly to ensure that the town’s best interests were always at the forefront of his decision-making, including standing up against big business when necessary to protect the community's health and character. His leadership and efforts, including securing Porter-on-the-Lake Town Park, helped shape the town he deeply loved.

Merton is remembered not only for his public service and his business, but also for his kindness, humility, and the personal connections he made with so many of the people he served. His ability to listen, understand, and address the concerns of his community made him a beloved figurehead in the Town of Porter. His presence at town meetings, community events, and local gatherings will be deeply missed.

Merton was born Feb. 7, 1939 in Sanborn, the son of the late Louis and Mabel (Hecht) Wiepert. He graduated from Wilson High School in 1956. Merton married Gloria (Rzepecki) Wiepert, who predeceased him on Aug. 24, 2007. He is survived by his three daughters: Lynne Clark, Kelly Lauber and Dr. Susan (David Koepcke) Wiepert. He is also survived by a brother, Carl (Nancy) Wiepert, as well as multiple grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nephews and nieces.

Merton was predeceased by five brothers: Donald Wiepert, Louis “Bob” (late Bee and Ruth) Wiepert, Gerald (late Beverly) Wiepert, Lloyd (late Joyce) Wiepert, and Harold (late Ellen) Wiepert.

His loss will be felt by many, but his contributions to the Town of Porter, his work at Wiepert’s Service Station, and the love he showed his family will endure as a lasting tribute to his remarkable life.

There will be no prior visitation. Arrangements entrusted to the Hardison Funeral Homes. Funeral services will be held privately by the family. Interment will be in North Ridge Cemetery, Lockport.

We ask that you please make time to connect with and cherish your own loved ones to honor Mert. He most loved quality time spent with his friends and family, and with his passing we hold onto those beautiful memories.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honor to Niagara Hospice at www.niagarahospice.org or Schoellkopf Health Center at www.nfmmc.org. His family will always be grateful for the wonderful care both of these facilities provided to him.

Please share condolences at www.hardisonfuneralhomes.com.