Diehl Randall Rettig

Diehl Randall Rettig, 66, loving family man, respected attorney and community leader of the Tri-Cities, unexpectedly passed away May 12th, 2010. He was preceded in death by his daughter Carolyn Ann and his parents Robert and Dorothea Rettig. Diehl is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Anne Rettig; his four children, Jeffrey Rettig of Everett, Kimberly Rettig of Bellevue, Dr. Robert Rettig of Kennewick, Jonathan Rettig of Richland. He is also survived by his six grandchildren; Robert, Lelia, Diehl, Caitlyn, Ian and Daxton. He was lovingly known as Big Papa to his grandbabies. Additional survivors include his brother, Dr. Gary Rettig and his wife (Shawn) and their six children; his sister Linda Digby and her husband (Cliff) and her two children; In-laws of Burlington, Ontario, Canada, Lloyd and Peggy Williamson; Brother in-law Bob Williamson and his wife (Patsy) and their three children also from Burlington; Sister-in-law Barbara and (Brett) Wright and their three children of Dundas, Ontario, Canada. Close friends and business associates include, Bill Lampson, Frank Armijo, Steve Osborne, Fran Forgette, Mike O'Donnell, Stu Turner, Pete Overdahl, Allen Brecke, Mike Lettig, Coke Roth, George Garlick, Dick Hoch, Randy Willis and many more too numerous to list. Other significant and special people include; Tracy Desmond, Natasha Rettig, Camille Booker, Suzanne Flemming, Shannon Arntzen and her daughter Sheridan and sister Jodie. Diehl received his undergraduate degree in accounting from Seattle University. He graduated with honors from Gonzaga University School of Law, receiving his juris doctorate in 1969. He served both as a bailiff and as clerk for the Honorable Judge Powell, United States District Court, Eastern District Division. His incredibly successful law practice began in the Tri-Cities in 1969. On March 1, 1977 a new law partnership was formed with Phil Raekes and Steve Osborne. This law firm which has diligently served the community is currently known as Rettig, Osborne, Forgette. Firm members also include O'Donnell, Iller, Adamson, Peterson and Bowers. In 1993 he was elected to the prestigious American College of Trial Lawyers after a year long nomination process. He was proud to be listed as being one of the top 100 lawyers in the State of Washington, where currently there are approximately 38, 000 practicing attorneys. Also, in 1995 he was named Kennewick man of the year. Diehl was a tireless community leader and was always willing to assume that role. Diehl was best described as a Powerhouse, a Mover, a Shaker, a Doer, a Barrier Breaker. From his early childhood years he always enjoyed being near or on the water. He was an avid fisherman and thoroughly loved his annual trip to Ilwaco where he was at his best in the challenge of reaching his daily salmon limit. His family and friends participated in his joy of fishing and relaxation. He thought of himself as being "A river to his people". Many memories will be shared by them for generations. Diehl had a talent of knowing exactly what to do and was always willing to lend a hand and in doing so made a positive influence in peoples' lives. He was a man of many talents and gifts, wit, charm, sense of humor, and keen intellect. He had a big bark and a soft heart. Christ's love was in his heart and he wanted others to know God's love, His forgiveness and His peace. He is with Him now. We will all miss him so much. A celebration in honor of Diehl's life will be held on Wednesday May 19, 2010 at 4:00 pm located at the Bill Lampson residence, 8308 Sunset Lane, Pasco, WA In lieu of flowers, if you so choose, please make donations to Young Life or to the Boys & Girls Club Organizations. Please send all correspondence and donations to the Rettig residence at 12522 Eagle Reach Court, Pasco, WA 99301