Richard L. Bretz, 92, of Smethport, formerly of Port Allegany, passed away Saturday (November 11, 2023) at Olean General Hospital, Olean, NY.

He was born December 7, 1930 in New Castle, PA, the son of Michael and Matilda (Plattner) Bretz. Dick was first married to Betty Daugherty in 1964.  She passed away on March 7, 1983. He was then married to Phyllis C. McGavisk Swanson on April 12, 1986.  She passed away on December 17, 2013.

Dick was a graduate of New Wilmington High School and served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean Conflict.

Mr. Bretz was a mechanic employed by Quaker State of Farmers Valley, PA, retiring in 1992.

He had attended the Gethsemane Lutheran Church of Port Allegany, was a former member and Past Commander of the Lions Club of New Castle, PA. He was also a member of the VFW Post #2497 of Smethport and the American Legion; John Berg Post #976 of Crosby.

Dick is survived by:

Two daughters: Linda Pesock of Coudersport and Tina (Lewis, Jr. “Charley”) Smith of Cyclone, PA

Three sons: Richard Leo (Michelle) Bretz in Candler, NC, John E. (Jennifer) Bretz of Cranesville, PA and Richard L. (Tammy) Bretz, Jr. of North Carolina

Two stepsons: Edward (Donna) Swanson and Roger Swanson

seven grandchildren and seven great grandchildren

And several nieces and nephews

In addition to his parents and wives, Dick was preceded in death by two brothers, Willis and Robert Bretz, and one step daughter, Rosemary Swanson.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Nov. 18, 2023 at 11AM in the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., 105 Main St., Port Allegany, with the Rev. Beth Rosler, officiating.  Military Honors will be accorded by the American Legion; John Berg Post #976 of Crosby.  Burial will be in Grimes Cemetery, Port Allegany.

Memorials, if desired, may be made to VFW Post #2497 of Smethport or American Legion; John Berg Post #976 of Crosby, PA. Online condolences may be made at www.hartle-tarboxfuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., Port Allegany.