Robert J. Gretz

Robert J. Gretz formerly of Gladwyne, PA, passed away on September 25, 2013 at Beaumont at Bryn Mawr Retirement Home. He was 91. A life-long Philadelphia area resident, Bob was raised in the Mount Airy section with his brother Bill, and sisters Ruth, Jane, Maurie and Dorothy. In 1947 Bob married another Mount Airy native, Eloise Morris. After graduating from LaSalle High School, Bob went on to earn an economics degree from Villanova University, followed immediately by his decision to join the Marine Corps. Bob's Marine corps training began at Officer Candidate School in Quantico, VA in 1944, and soon joined Charlie company, as company commander, 11th Marines, 1st Marine division as a Captain. He led his command with distinction as a forward observer and artillery officer in the battle of Okinawa. Following the surrender of Japan, Bob went on to China to help oversee the post-war transition. After the war, Bob joined the family Brewing business. The Rieger and Gretz Brewing Company was founded in 1882 by Bob's Grandfather, William Gretz, and became the William Gretz Brewing company after prohibition. Under Bob's leadership, the Brewery became one of the largest, most innovative and successful breweries in the Philadelphia region. To this day the William Gretz Brewing company brewery is a Philadelphia landmark at Germantown and Oxford Avenue, and a tribute to the "Golden" age of Philadelphia's Brewing heritage. Bob left the family company and founded Delco Beverage Company in 1954, later becoming the Gretz Beer Company, currently located in Norristown and Doylestown, PA. Gretz Beer company has been a highly recognized Anheuser Busch wholesaler, and one of the most respected craft beer distribution companies in the Country. An avid golfer, Bob was a long time member at Merion Golf Club, and Philadelphia Country Club as well as Jupiter Hills and Turtle Creek Golf Club in Florida. An enthusiastic sailor, sportsman, and dear friend to all. Bob will be missed by all who knew him. He was the beloved husband of 66 years to Eloise (nee Morris), Loving Father to Suzanne, Robert J., Jr. (Susan), Stephen E., and Michael J., Grandfather to Mary Allison, Elizabeth, Kyler, Roxalana, Michael Jr., Lauren and Emily Gretz. A Funeral Mass was held Monday September 30th at St. John Vianney Church in Gladwyne, PA. Interment was in Calvary Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made in his name to A.W.B (Acting Without Boundaries), 750 E. Haverford Rd., Bryn Mawr, PA 19010.