Frederick James Mertz

August 20, 1946 – June 3, 2025

Frederick J Mertz, 78, of Bainbridge, NY, passed away at his home on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. True to his spirit, Fred faced his illness with strength, determination, and the quiet tenacity that defined him throughout his life.

Born on August 20, 1946, in Sidney, NY, Fred was the son of the late Jerome and Phyllis (MacDonald) Mertz. A 1966 graduate of Sidney High School, Fred went on to serve his country with honor in the United States Army. He was stationed in Germany with the U.S. Army Europe as part of the 3rd Battalion, 32nd Armor Regiment, where he served as a turret repair specialist. His service in the Ordnance Corps earned him both the Good Conduct Medal and the National Defense Service Medal. He was honorably discharged in 1968.

Following his military service, Fred returned home and built a long career in manufacturing, working first at the Borden Glue Factory in Bainbridge until its closure in 2006, and later retiring from Amphenol Aerospace.

"Fast Freddy" was a man of few words but a big heart. Known for his dry wit, gentle demeanor, and deep love for his family and friends, he was a devoted father, grandfather, brother, and loyal friend. He had a lifelong passion for cars—especially his Rat Rods and motorcycles—and was a familiar face at local races, car meets, and coffee stops at Trackside Diner and McDonald's in Sidney. When not on the road or at the track, Fred could often be found tinkering at his beloved "Sugar Shack" or swapping stories at Price Automotive in Sidney with his family friend Tim Price and the crew.

Fred is survived by his loving sister, Faye (Stockwell) Mertz of Raleigh, NC; his children: Eric and Jamie (Price) Mertz of Bainbridge, and Ashlee (Mertz) Donahue and husband Tom of Whitney Point; his cherished grandchildren: Brody, Callie, Cayden, and Aaliyah Mertz of Bainbridge, and Ella and Jamison Donahue of Whitney Point. He is also survived by his niece and nephews: Kevin and Sara Stockwell of Clayton, NC, and Chris and April (Stockwell) Ward of Summerville, SC. Fred was a proud grandfather figure to many others who held a special place in his heart, including Charles and Lucas Waldren of Bainbridge.

Fred will be remembered for his quiet courage, mechanical ingenuity, and steadfast love for his family, his friends, his cars, and his country.

Calling hours will be held at C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel, 21 Main Street, Sidney, on Sunday, June 8th from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. A graveside service with military honors will take place on Monday, June 9th at 11:00 a.m. at Prospect Hill Cemetery in Sidney, NY.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made directly to C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel to assist the family with final expenses.

Arrangements are under the caring guidance of C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel, Sidney, NY.