Mertl Remembered as Loyal Husband, Father

Eric Mertl, a San Mateo County Sheriff's deputy who was killed in a motorcycle accident Jan. 30 while he was off duty, is remembered as a dedicated husband and father who never forgot his inner child. 

Mertl, 51, was riding at the El Camino Real and Bellevue Avenue intersection in Burlingame when his motorcycle collided with a car. 

The San Mateo County Sheriff's Office released the following about Mertl:

Eric was a lifelong resident of Burlingame who grew up knowing he wanted to pursue a career in law enforcement.  He was one of Millbrae’s first Police Explorers at the program’s inception and went on to work as an officer there for 19 years.  During his tenure at Millbrae, Eric served as a Motorcycle/Traffic Enforcement Officer, Canine Officer and Field Training Officer and spent a great deal of time mentoring youth and giving back to the program that inspired his career.

In 2005. Eric became a Deputy for the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office and was initially assigned to the Maguire Correctional Facility, later working patrol on the Coast. Eric was recently appointed as Range Master and Taser Instructor and was looking forward to his new pursuits.

Eric was a dedicated and loyal husband and father.  He treasured both family and friends and would give the shirt off his back and the last dollar in his pocket. He loved camping, hiking, and appreciated the intrinsic beauty of nature.  His tenacious, enthusiastic, and proud demeanor served him well both personally and professionally.  

Despite his profession, Eric had the ability to balance his home and work life, and never took for granted the moments spent with those he loved.  He treasured spending time with friends, and caring for family.  He never lost sight of his inner child as evidenced by his annual trips to Disneyland, his joking nature and his ability to view the world from an unbiased perspective.

Eric leaves behind his wife of 18 years, and his 12 year old son, in addition to many family members and friends.