Kristen Leigh Marin Mergler passed away on October 1, 2025 in Troy, Missouri. She was born on April 10, 1965 during a snowstorm, at Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital to Rich and Bonnie Heather Marin.

She attended local schools and graduated from Nevada Union, Class of 1983. She graduated from Cosmetology School in the Sacramento Area where she was then employed. Kristen fell in love with the food industry and became a representative for Sysco Food.

On April 9, 2016, Kristen married Elliott “Buck” Mergler in Truckee, CA. They moved to Troy, Missouri shortly after.
Kristen loved birds, butterflies, snowstorms, Disneyland, and Rod Stewart. She never met a stranger; everyone became her friend. Her sense of humor and infectious smile were contagious. She loved to cook and entertain in her home; everyone was always welcome. Kristen enjoyed coming home to Grass Valley and meeting up with her good friends at The Willo.

Kristen is survived by her husband Elliott, her mother Bonnie Heather Marin, her brothers Marty and Matt Marin, her daughters Maggie Marin and Renee Henslee; three granddaughters Trinity, Vivian and Elizabeth, uncle Bob Kochis, nieces Tyanna and Faith, numerous cousins and wonderful friends.

She is preceded in death by her father Rich Marin and grandparents Dick and Gertrude Heather and John and Minnie Marin as well as aunt Juanice Heather Kochis.
Kristen will be interred with her father at New Elm Ridge Cemetery and a memorial gathering will follow in the Spring.

Donations may be made in her memory to Shriner’s Children’s Hospital or a charity of your choice.