Obituary of Willard B. Fretz

Willard  B. Fretz, 88, Mont Clare

Willard Fretz, 88,  husband to Ruth Ann Solliday Fretz, passed away Sunday April 28, 2024 in the Devon Sr. Living.

One of four children, Willard was born March 18, 1936 in Lansdale to the late Willard and the late Leona (Harpel) Fretz.  He went to Schwenksville High School where he played football.  He joined the Army right after graduation.  Just like his father and uncle, Willard joined the men of BF Goodrich where he worked many years.  In 1977, he took the leap and successfully launched his own business, Superior Tree Service.  Willard was a man of stature and proud of his family.  He instilled a hard work ethic in his three sons, who all worked for the family business.  After he retired from the business, he pursued his passion for harness horse racing.  He owned and bred several horses; which he raced at the Poconos and Harrah’s race tracks. 

Willard enjoyed many hours hunting and fishing with his family.  The family also looked forward to summer vacations at the beach with relatives.

Willard leaves behind his beloved wife of 60 years, Ruth Ann Fretz, and son Willard Gideon “Bill” Fretz (husband to Heidi); a brother, Robert Fretz (husband to Laura) and three grandchildren:  Nathan and Justine Fretz and Miranda Nacarelli.

Predeceased are his two sons:  Randy and Daniel Fretz, parents:  Willard and Leona Fretz and sisters:  Cynthia Carrington and Sandy Sheeder and grandson Luke Fretz.

A memorial service and military honors will be held on Wednesday, May 15,  2024 at 11 AM, at the Valley Forge Baptist Church, 616 South Trappe Road, Collegeville PA 19426. Friends can visit with the family before the service begining at 10:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to:  Ryerss Farm for Aged Equines, 1710 Ridge Road, Pottstown PA 19465 or online at https://www.ryerssfarm.org/donate

Online condolences and memorial donations can be made  at www.sgsfuneralhome.com. All arrangements are being handled by Shalkop, Grace & Strunk Funeral Home, Inc Spring City, PA.