Raymond D. Bretz Obituary (1930 - 2023)

Raymond D. Bretz, age 92, of Harborcreek, passed away on Saturday, March 4, 2023 at UPMC Hamot following an extended illness. He was born in Erie on June 9, 1930, son of the late Stefan and Rose Melzer Bretz. Ray was a lifelong resident of Harborcreek. He was a graduate of Harbor Creek High School. After high school, Ray served in the Marines during the Korean War. He then went on to work for Harborcreek Township, and 27 years at Hammermill Paper Company, retiring in 1997. Ray volunteered at Emmaus Soup Kitchen for many years. He enjoyed 4 wheeling with his grandchildren and his dog, Fritz. He liked slow pitch, bowling, fishing, auctions, and was known as the Mayor of Shorewood Gang at Shorewood Beach. Survivors include his daughters, Denise Dean (Doug) of Hershey, PA and Tami Smith (Don Fuller) of Harborcreek; grandchildren, Carly Lydic (Ed), Travis Dean, Jason Dean, David Smith (Ashley), Brett Smith (Candace) and Krista Sackett (Chris); great-grandchildren, Wyatt and Harper Lydic, Raylynn, Brynley and Kaysyn, Mia and Tommy Smith and Shayna Sackett; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Carolee; daughter, Sharon; four sisters, Rose Jenkins, Margaret Hinkler, Esther Waldermarson and Dorothy Bretz; four brothers, George, Albert, Stephen and John Bretz; and great-grandson, Maverick Smith. Friends may call at the Dusckas Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc. 2607 Buffalo Rd., on Wednesday from 3 to 7 pm and are invited to attend a Funeral Service there on Thursday at 11 am conducted by Rev. Mary Stewart. Interment will follow at North East Cemetery with full Military Honors rendered by the American Legion Carl Neff Post #571. Memorial contributions may be made to Harbor Creek Fire Department, 7275 Buffalo Rd., Harborcreek, PA 16421. CLICK HERE TO PRINT THIS PAGE SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA OR EMAIL