Local Music Community Mourns the Loss of ‘Hamburger’ Ron Mertz

Acadiana lost a pretty cool guy yesterday as we learned of the passing of Ron Mertz, aka "Hamburger" Ron.

Over the years, if you frequented Cowboy's Night Club or Whiskey River and even as far back as the Yellow Rose in Lafayette, you've probably ate a burger cooked by Ron.

You've likely had a conversation with him too. He had a knack for making small talk with just about anyone he met.

While I didn't know him that great, like many music fans, I've enjoyed a conversation or two about the great Acadiana musical talent with Mr. Ron.

I enjoyed reading all the tributes and great memories posted on social media over the last day by his friends in the local music community.

Ron's sudden passing at the age of 76 leaves his family in great pain, as you can imagine. His daughter has set up a GoFundMe account to help with funeral expenses.

She shared a little bit about her dad in the GoFundMe posting:

With a heavy heart, I ask for your help. My father, Ron Mertz, passed suddenly, Monday January 29, 2018. He leaves behind a wife, two children and 2 grandchildren that were his pride in joy. As you can imagine, our family is grieving right now and the last thing we want to worry about is finances and how were gonna make ends meet. Funeral expenses are only the beginning for us and it's difficult without life insurance. Anyone who knew my father, knows that he had a huge heart and would help anyone who needed it. He loved the outdoors, the Atchafalya River, listening to live and local music, Willie Nelson and spending time with his dearest friends bullshitting at the bar. He saw no wrong in others and always looked for the positive in people. He spent majority of his life on the coaches side while my brother and I played sports. He carried that on and was at every soccer/ baseball game my children ever played. He also adored my daughter and admired her skill for playing the violin. All who knew him, we're blessed with his knowledge and opinion. Yes, he was an Aggie!! Gig 'em!! Even tho we gave him hell for it, he stayed true to his roots! He will live on through the lives of others and he'll never be forgotten. Please consider helping my family in this time of need. 

If you're so inclined to help this sweet family, please click HERE to donate.

Godspeed Mr. Ron Mertz. You were one of a kind.