William H. Dietz

YORK – William H. “Billy” Dietz, 101, passed away Friday, Jan. 5, 2024 at his home. He was the husband of the late Gertrude (Bohner) Dietz, to whom he was married in June 1944.

Born May 2, 1922, in Trevorton, Pa., he was a son of the late Joseph D. and Lydia Ann (Troutman) Dietz.

Shortly after high school, Mr. Dietz joined the U.S. Army Air Corps in 1943, serving during World War II as an aircraft armorer while stationed with the 77th Air Service Squadron in North Africa and Italy. Mr. Dietz frequently said that one of the most vivid memories he had from wartime was while traveling to Texas for basic training. The famous bluebells were in full bloom during his visit and seemed to cover the landscape. It's a sight he never forgot—vowing to return one day to see them again. He was honorably discharged in 1946.

After serving our country, he went on to work for Columbia Gas in the service department. Outside of work, Mr. Dietz was a member of St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in Manchester, Pa., and was a past member of the American Legion in Trevorton. An avid walker, Mr. Dietz was fond of taking long strolls and did so for as long as he was able. He credited this activity as part of the secret for living such a long life.

Mr. Dietz is survived by three children, Margaret “Peggy” Lycette, Susan Millard, and Betty Ertle and her husband, Edward; four grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and a daughter-in-law, Ruth Dietz. He is preceded in death by Gertrude, his wife of 73 years; a son, Joseph Dietz; and two sons-in-law, Richard Lycette and Clifford Millard.

Services will be held in the spring. Heffner Funeral Chapel & Crematory in York is assisting the family with arrangements.

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