This is a copy as it appeared on the Reveiw of Optometry e-Journal Optometric Physician...
"In Memoriam:
George W. Mertz, O.D., F.A.A.O., F.I.A.C.L.E
We are saddened to report the sudden passing of Dr. George W. Mertz, renowned optometric researcher and Director of Academic Affairs for Vistakon. Dr. Mertz passed away on Saturday, September 14, 2002 in Jacksonville, Fla. He was 56. He is survived by Jill, his wife; brother Dr. James Mertz, a nephrologist in Kansas City, Kans.; and sister Eileen Leininger, a teacher in Sheldon, Mo.
Dr. Mertz was employed by the Standard Oil Company of California (Chevron) before earning a Doctor of Optometry degree from the University of California at Berkeley. He was involved in clinical research and professional education programs in the contact lens industry for more than 25 years. He held executive management positions at several contact lens manufacturing companies. He was involved in landmark research on the ocular physiological response to extended-wear soft contact lenses at the University of New South Wales, in Sydney, Australia.
Dr. Mertz joined Vistakon in 1990. He was responsible for the company’s programs at academic institutions for training future eyecare professionals. A fellow of the American Academy of Optometry, he was also a diplomate in its Cornea and Contact Lens Section. He was a charter member of the International Society for Contact Lens Research and a member of the Board of Directors of the American Optometric Foundation, for which he also served as president. He published more than 25 articles in peer-reviewed journals and lectured throughout the world on contact lens–related topics.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his memory to the American Optometric Foundation, 6110 Executive Blvd, Suite 506, Rockville, Md., 20852. Those wishing to send cards or letters may address them to: Jill Mertz, 12970 Spiceberry Circle South, Jacksonville, Fla., 32246.
A Celebration of Life commemorating George Mertz is scheduled for Sunday afternoon, October 6, 2002, in Jacksonville. "
He will be missed by all who had the privilege knowing him as well as the Optometric Community.
Rest in Peace, George.
"In Memoriam:
George W. Mertz, O.D., F.A.A.O., F.I.A.C.L.E
We are saddened to report the sudden passing of Dr. George W. Mertz, renowned optometric researcher and Director of Academic Affairs for Vistakon. Dr. Mertz passed away on Saturday, September 14, 2002 in Jacksonville, Fla. He was 56. He is survived by Jill, his wife; brother Dr. James Mertz, a nephrologist in Kansas City, Kans.; and sister Eileen Leininger, a teacher in Sheldon, Mo.
Dr. Mertz was employed by the Standard Oil Company of California (Chevron) before earning a Doctor of Optometry degree from the University of California at Berkeley. He was involved in clinical research and professional education programs in the contact lens industry for more than 25 years. He held executive management positions at several contact lens manufacturing companies. He was involved in landmark research on the ocular physiological response to extended-wear soft contact lenses at the University of New South Wales, in Sydney, Australia.
Dr. Mertz joined Vistakon in 1990. He was responsible for the company’s programs at academic institutions for training future eyecare professionals. A fellow of the American Academy of Optometry, he was also a diplomate in its Cornea and Contact Lens Section. He was a charter member of the International Society for Contact Lens Research and a member of the Board of Directors of the American Optometric Foundation, for which he also served as president. He published more than 25 articles in peer-reviewed journals and lectured throughout the world on contact lens–related topics.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his memory to the American Optometric Foundation, 6110 Executive Blvd, Suite 506, Rockville, Md., 20852. Those wishing to send cards or letters may address them to: Jill Mertz, 12970 Spiceberry Circle South, Jacksonville, Fla., 32246.
A Celebration of Life commemorating George Mertz is scheduled for Sunday afternoon, October 6, 2002, in Jacksonville. "
He will be missed by all who had the privilege knowing him as well as the Optometric Community.
Rest in Peace, George.
