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Eric Mertl Obituary
Beloved husband of Susan Bowie and loving father of Kyle Mertl.
Devoted son of Anna Mertl and of the late Fritz Mertl.
Dear brother of Richard (his wife Debbie) Mertl, Fred (his wife Karen) Mertl.
Also survived by many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.
A native of Burlingame California, age 51 years. Eric graduated from Burlingame High School in 1978, and he began a career in law enforcement as a Millbrae Police Explorer/Cadet. He later became a Police Officer in the City of Millbrae, assigned to traffic and canine duties. In 2005, he transferred to the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office as a Deputy Sheriff, having a combined thirty-two year career in law enforcement.
Family and friends may visit on Tuesday February 5, 2013 from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Saint Dunstan Catholic Church, with a Vigil Service beginning at 7:00 PM.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday February 6 at 11:00 AM at Saint Dunstan Catholic Church in Millbrae.
His family appreciates donations to Mertl Family Relief Fund #1382999S80 at the San Francisco Police Credit Union, 1495 South El Camino Real, San Mateo CA 94402.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Eric Mertl
Sponsored by Eric's niece Elizabeth Wilson .
Rick Mertl
January 29, 2025
You have been gone 12 years and I still think of you I hope your taking care of mom and dad in heaven your son is doing well going to unr learning about and planning his life wanting to be a game warden he did take my advice and took the house over the money so he has his first house all his I miss you my brother your brother Rick
Wally
January 28, 2025
My little grouchy German buddy had the biggest heart, he´d be the very first one to offer to let me borrow any of his equipment that I needed for my shift. I remember my first time working an overtime shift on the coast, I was days and he was nights, I forgot my GPS at home and that morning as he was getting ready to leave to go home and rest, he got out of his truck, walked over to his patrol car and gave me his GPS to use for the day. He even took the extra time he could be on his way home to sleep, to show me and explain to me how to use the GPS properly. Big smile on his face, he wished me a safe shift....I would give anything to relive that moment ....we miss you, you Big Lovable Grouch .
Family friend (from childhood)
January 28, 2024
I remember in my 20´s I would come party down in the south bay you would always be there and I felt so safe.
miss you
I think you left our world to soon
Wally
July 16, 2021
July 16, 2021......and I still miss my friend like I lost him yesterday. But I find comfort in knowing he´s up there in heaven keeping an eye on his family & friends....until we meet again my friend, we all miss you .
Richard Mertl
January 29, 2019
Eric if you were alive today you would be very proud of your son not only is he taller than me but he's also smart I do miss you and think about you everydayit's funny when we're up at Christmas with mom up at Sparks and he's in another room his voice sounds just like yours your brother Rick
February 22, 2014
Eric you've been gone a little over a year and a day does not go by that I don't think of you I thought I missed our father but as sad as I have to say I miss you more little brother and wish you were still here Love from your oldest brother Rick
Elizabeth Wilson
February 21, 2014
I miss you more and more as time goes on yet I continue to smile everyday in your honor. My mentor, my friend, my confidant and my uncle you will remain in my heart until my heart no longer beats at which point we will meet again. XOXOXO Lizard Breath
Kelly Hoffmann
February 10, 2013
Such a tragic end for someone so obviously loved and full of life.
My thoughts and prayer to Eric and his family.
He is missed.
Gaby Chaghouri
February 7, 2013
Eric,
You are my best friend, mentor, and the best partner I have ever worked with. You were like my brother. My world has forever changed without your smile and endless support. I will be there for Susan, Kyle, and your entire family. I love you brother.
Mary Houweling
February 6, 2013
I'm Lynn's Mom. I have such an understanding of loosing your husband suddenly. It won't get better for awhile. I can help you. Please call/email me when you're able.
February 6, 2013
I'm Mary Houweling, Lynn's Mom. I also lost my husband suddenly. I umderstand your shock and disbelief. Please call
me, I can help.
Mary
February 6, 2013
I'm Mary Houweling, Lynn's Mom. My husband died unexpectantly also. I share your sorrow and shock. I am so very sad for you. People told me ot would get better, I didn't believe them. God will help, but not for awhile. I have some things that will help when you're ready. Please call me...
I understand what it's like to loose your husband and have your life torn apart.
Amy Jo Kim
February 6, 2013
Eric was a bright, warm, loving presence - and the outpouring of love and support today at the service was a real testament to his indelible impact on the world. Such a great man, taken much too soon. We were lucky to have known him, even briefly, and we look forward to being part of the support system that helps his family deal with their loss. Lots of Love to Susan and Kyle.
Sylvia Maendl
February 6, 2013
My friend Eric. We where childhood frends. You where my first crush, father of my dolls. I will never forget you. Sure wish I could see you one more time. Rest in peace.
Jenny Moscini
February 6, 2013
Susan, my heart breaks for you and Kyle. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.
Danny Boylan
February 6, 2013
Susan, I am so very sorry for your loss. I heard the news from Caitlin and you've been on my mind since.
Jim Latimer
February 6, 2013
Susan & Kyle,
What a wonderful service today for Eric. No surprise that someone who cared so much about others would be given so much support and love by family, work family, and friends. May you both find comfort and peace in your time of grief as you experience the outpouring of love and support, and may God's presence be felt daily.
Warmest regards,
Jim
Jessica Lowder
February 6, 2013
Eric, you and the family were a big part of the reason I went to work! To see you and your beautiful family! Your personality lit up the room! Peppermint Mocha's will never be the same! You were a great inspiration. I know Kyle is a lucky guy to have you as a father! Susan, Kyle and the rest of the family, I hold you in my prayers and thoughts...Eric, you will be missed.
Joseph Gonzales
February 5, 2013
Eric was a great man, and I will miss him giving me a hard time and always wanting to help me, he always seemed to brighten my day. His kindness and willingness to always lend a hand, made him a superlative person. He was a very inspirational person to myself and I will never forget him.
Myrna Fernandez
February 5, 2013
You will be so missed by all who knew you.
My thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time.
Rest in Peace, Eric Mertl
Jerri Schoenstein
February 5, 2013
Wishing Susan, Kyle, family and friends the comfort of happy memories as the loss of Eric is mourned. His family and service are a lasting legacy.
Donna Schlimmer
February 4, 2013
Eric, as with many good men before you, you were taken much too soon. For many of the almost 30 years since we met I was able to call you a co-worker, but for all that time I was able to call you my friend. We shared the joy and pain in each others lives. You were a friend in the truest sense of the word. I will miss you. My heart breaks for your family, co-workers and many friends. You, Susan and Kyle will forever be in my thoughts and prayers.
United Studios of Self Defense
February 4, 2013
Eric, you will be missed... We will always remember you with the smile on your face, your talent to make people smile... Dear Susan and Kyle, USSD family grief with you and we want you to know that we will always be there for you guys no matter what...
Cathy Ritchie
February 4, 2013
Rest in peace Eric, the world was a better place because of you. I will never forget your smile! God Bless
Stacey Miller
February 4, 2013
Whenever I think of Eric, I laugh because that's what he made me do everytime I saw him. He spread the light everywhere he went. Thank you, Eric. Susan, Kyle and family my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Dan Gravagno
February 4, 2013
Dear Kyle and Susan; Please know that Pack 128 misses you and feels for you. Eric was one of the most involved Dads we have met. A beautiful sense of humor, an unflinching volunteer whenever the Pack needed any help. Please also know you are not alone. We are here for you, and will always stand by you. Love and Peace. Burlingame Pack 128.
Jim Pappas
February 3, 2013
Eric, I know Dave and Bill have met you at Heaven's Gate. I have known you since the 70's, and you were like a little brother to me. I was just as excited as you were when you joined our newly formed Police Explorer Cadet program at Millbrae PD. You grew up in the police department, you were always one to be up and ready for a challenge. You rode the motors, you ran the range and you ran with your K9. I remember how excited you where when he got his first bite. You got involved with the Explorers, and you made friends at every turn of your career. I watched you grow even more as a Deputy, and your lovely wife, Sue, always kept me informed of your Sheriff's Office adventures.
I remember when you met Susan and when Kyle came along. You are truly a family man.
You know that I will be there for your family and friends, as we prepare a tribute to your time with us. You are already missed, but now you have joined the ranks of our guardian angels; Kenny, Dave, Bill, and Jim.
God Speed!
Marie Costello
February 3, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with the Mertl family. I worked with Eric many years ago in Millbrae. He was one of the good ones. A positive light, always a laugh and a smile. Rest in peace my friend.
Andreas Koch mit Familie
February 3, 2013
In one of the stars I shall be living. In one of them I shall be laughing. And so it will be as if all the stars were laughing, when you look at the sky at night
Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, The Little Prince
Richard Mertl
February 3, 2013
To all who leave a thoughtful wish or prayer for my brother and our family thank you
Vikki Garrett
February 2, 2013
Why is it always the good ones? My prayers to Eric's family. He was a good man. Thank you, Eric, for all your years of service. RIP
Lynn Houweling
February 2, 2013
Susan, I'm keeping you and Kyle in my prayers. Much love to you.
Stephen Oppenheim
February 2, 2013
Our thought and prayers are with you at this time. Eric was a friend and a teacher for me.
Yvonne Williamson
February 2, 2013
My deepest condolences to you and your family. You are all in our prayers.
Carol Schlimmer
February 2, 2013
To the Erick Mertl Family
My deepest thoughts and prayers are with you.
David Pera and family
February 2, 2013
We will miss you greatly.
lanette
February 1, 2013
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Caitlin Mahar
February 1, 2013
Susan, I've been thinking of you, Kyle and your family nearly every moment of the day...my deepest condolences.
Sherry Eldridge
February 1, 2013
My heart goes out to Susan and her entire extended her family.
E. Alan Normandy
February 1, 2013
Take care, brother. We will miss you. Save us a seat, okay? I love ya, man.
E. Alan Normandy
February 1, 2013
We will miss you, brother. Save us a seat, will ya?
Anthony Tolentino
February 1, 2013
My deepest condolences to you and your family.
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