Richard Sage Merz

Richard Sage Merz passed away on September 29, 2026, at the age of 84. He was born on January 2, 1942, in Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

Richard served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He was also a graduate of Fairmont High School. In his working life, he served as a Montgomery County Deputy Sheriff for 20 years, a role that reflected his dedication to public service and his community.

Richard was a man of many interests and accomplishments. He was a lifelong member of the Ohio Rifle and Pistol Association and the NRA, and he was a member of the Miamisburg Sportsmans Club for 20 years. His skill and dedication as an avid rifle and pistol shooter led him to compete as part of an Army Shooting Team, and he also served as a range cadre and safety instructor. He was a certified SCUBA dive master and cave diver, and a member of the American Legion in West Carrollton.

In retirement, Richard became a world traveler, spending his summers seeing the world. He climbed Mt. Fuji, and wherever he went, he carried his love of photography with him, taking pictures along the way. He was also known as a food connoisseur and food snob, bringing curiosity and enthusiasm to every meal and every place he visited. He loved American Indian artifacts and enjoyed visiting Indian burial mounds. He also enjoyed knife collecting.

Richard will be deeply missed by his family. He is survived by his son, Jacob T. Merz and his wife, Tina; his daughter, Leah T. Sax and her husband, Tony; his brother, Robert A. Merz and his wife, Debbie; his grandson, Cory Gephart and his wife, Dena; his grandson, Austin T. Merz and his wife, Kimberly; his granddaughter, Cortney Daniels and her husband, Travis; his granddaughters, Rachel Sax and Katie Sax; his great-grandsons, Greyson Gephart, Desmond Gephart, and Sylas Daniels; and his great-granddaughter, Skye Kidwell. He was preceded in death by his father, William T. Merz; his mother, Alethea Merz; and his brother, Thomas Merz and his wife, Susan.

Visitation will be held on October 17, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home, Kettering, 3940 Kettering Blvd, Kettering, Ohio 45439. A memorial service will follow at 3:00 p.m. at the funeral home. His memorial service will be live streamed and can be watched by clicking the link below.

Richard Sage Merz will be remembered for his service, his adventurous spirit, his strong interests, and the love he held for his family. To share a memory of Richard or leave a special message for his family, please visit the Guestbook below.