MERTENS, Robert “Red”, devoted husband, beloved father and grandfather passed away on Monday, September 10, 2012 in Brandon, FL. He was born in Brooklyn, NY on January 2, 1936 to William and Cornelia Mertens. He is survived by his beloved wife, Jody; sister Barbara Primosch; brother Lawrence “Skip” Mertens; children Mark Mertens (Jane), Rachel O’Brien, Laura Bolding, John Mertens, Lynne Sprenger (Mike); and grandchildren, Amanda Leonard Hintz, Jacob Sprenger, Sophia Sprenger and Nathan Sprenger. Red served in the United States Navy on the USS Boston, the first guided missile cruiser. A retired firefighter of 42 years, he served both the city of Tampa and Hillsborough County. Red also served as a training officer and a Fire Chief with Hillsborough County Fire Department. It was his privilege to have Phoenix, the first Arson Detection Dog for Hillsborough County Fire Department. The family has held a private memorial. If you would like to express condolences, please see www.stowersfh.com.