Charles R. Mertz, 81

Charles R. (Chuck) Mertz, 81, passed away on Saturday, July 21, 2012 after a long and courageous battle with a form of bone marrow cancer known as myodisplastic syndrome (MDS). He was the beloved husband of Dorothy A. (Dolly) Mertz with whom he recently celebrated 61 years of marriage. Born in Atlantic City, New Jersey, he was the son of the late William K and Mary C. Mertz.

Chuck was a graduate of Drexel University earning a B.S. in Civil Engineering. In 2007, he proudly became a Drexel "Golden Dragon" as a 50 year alumnus of the university. He worked with many corporations in various executive positions ending with a 21 year career with High Industries.

Chuck was a member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Holy Trinity in Lancaster.  A lifelong trombonist, he played with many bands and orchestras in the Lancaster, Philadelphia and Pittsburgh areas.  He was a 30 year subscriber and attendee of the Philadelphia Orchestra concerts. An avid tennis player, he was a member of the West Side and Wheatland Tennis Clubs. Chuck also served as President of the Valleybrook Board of Directors for 18 years. He loved the ocean, jazz and big band music, traveling, crossword puzzles, gardening and living a full and fun-filled life.  He will be sorely missed by his little dog Koukla.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children: Charles W. (Cheryl K. Scalzi) of Limerick, PA; Susan M. Loutsion (Dr. Nicholas G.) of Canonsburg, PA; and Dave M. (Barbara V.) of Quarryville, PA.  A devoted "Papou", his greatest pride and joy were his beloved granddaughters Alexandra and Alyssa Loutsion.  He is also survived by his step-granddaughter Georgiana L. Coe (John E., Jr.) and their children Alexander T. and Ava R. of Reading, PA.  He was preceded in death by 3 siblings.

Friends will be received on Saturday, September 8, 2012 from 10:00-11:00AM at the Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Holy Trinity, 31 S. Duke St., Lancaster, PA with the Memorial Service to follow at 11:00AM officiated by the Deacon Augustus Mauro. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions in Chuck’s memory to Hospice and Community Service, 685 Good Drive, Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604-4125(hospiceoflancaster.org) or to The MDS Foundation, 4573 S. Broad St., Suite 150, Yardville, NJ 08620. To send an online condolence please visit: SnyderFuneralHome.com. Charles F. Snyder Jr. Funeral Home & Crematory 717-560-5100