SMYRNA - Ronald Ira Fretz, Sr. went home to be with the Lord on Friday, Nov. 3, 2017.
He was born on Aug. 26, 1941 in Philadelphia, Pa., the son of the late William Francis Fretz and Elsie Gladys Hinman Fretz.
A graduate of the Dover High School Class of 1960, Mr. Fretz proudly served in the United State Marine Corps from 1960 to 1964. He worked for General Motors, from which he retired, for 42 years. In his free time, he enjoyed 30-plus years volunteering for the Smyrna-Clayton Little Lass, not only coaching and managing his three daughters and many other local players, but also serving as an umpire, concessions manager and groundskeeper. He was a member of the Community of Christ, Wilmington, where he served as an Elder.
He was an avid Philadelphia Eagles fan and was a loving and caring husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He always enjoyed the company of the youngest members of his family, affectionately referring to them as "PopPop's darlings."
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his siblings, Herbie Fretz, Frannie Shetzler, Betty Harris, Bobby Fretz, William Fretz, Jr., Irvin Fretz, Doris Forsythe, and David Fretz.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Joyce Ann Fretz of Smyrna; daughters Robyn D. Shaner of Clayton, Terri L. Fretz and her companion Ben Garnett of Smyrna, and Cindi L. Ridenour and her husband Mark of Smyrna; son, Ronald I. Fretz, Jr. and his wife Maureen Raitz of Hartly; sisters, Mae Chase of Smyrna and Gloria Runyon of Gallop, New Mexico; nine grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews and beloved friends.
A Funeral Service will be held at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 9, 2017 at Faries Funeral Home, located at 29 South Main Street, Smyrna. A viewing will be held two hours prior to the services, beginning at 4 p.m. Burial will be privately held.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Smyrna-Clayton Little Lass, P.O. Box 55, Smyrna, DE 19977.
Condolence letters may be sent by visiting www.fariesfuneralhome.com