Louis Red Mertz, a longtime member of the Hicksville community and 48-year member of the Hicksville Fire Department, passed away suddenly on Aug. 14, 2005. He was 79 years old.

Nicknamed Red because of his hair color, Mr. Metz first entered the fire service in 1945, at the age of 19, as a member of the Manhasset Lakeville Fire Department. Twelve years later, in 1957, he moved to Hicksville and joined the Hicksville Fire Department's Company #1. A year later, Mr. Mertz transferred to Company #2 and rose through the ranks, serving in various capacities, including captain of the department, chairman of the tournament committee and president of the exempt association as well as captain of the department's racing team for three years.

In 1968, Mr. Mertz was elected third assistant chief of the Hicksville Fire Department, moving up the ranks, to finally serve as chief from 1972 to 1973. At the time of his death, Mr. Mertz was still an active member of the Hicksville Fire Department, attending meetings and functions.

"Red was just a great guy and definitely will be missed. There are so many good things to say about him," said Hicksville Fire Commissioner Robert Dwyer. "He was a team player and team cheerleader for the department and drill team, for both young and old." Dwyer added, "Whenever Red Mertz was around, you always had a smile on your face."

Of Mr. Mertz, Brian Anderson, captain of Company #2, said, "Besides the company, this is a big loss to the entire department. He will be sorely missed and we will never forget his smile and fun loving ways. He loved the department and we are not going to see a guy like him around for quick some time." Anderson added that he is glad Mr. Mertz got to see his grandson join the company and follow in the tradition of the racing team.

Mr. Metz is predeceased by his wife, Viola "Jerry" Mertz. He is survived by his children Pam Dixon, Debra Mohrman and Glenn Mertz; and grandchildren Elizabeth, Dana, John, Kathryn, Geralyn, Timmy and Jimmy.

Funeral arrangements were handled by the Vernon C. Wagner Funeral Home in Hicksville. A Mass of Christian burial took place at Our Lady of Mercy RC Church followed by interment at Pinelawn Memorial Park in Farmingdale. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Mr. Mertz' memory to the Fireman's Home of the State of NY, 107 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY 12210; http://www.fasny.com.