Robert J. Gretz, Jr.

Robert James Gretz Jr, of Villanova, PA, passed away on October 20th, 2022 at Bryn Mawr Hospital.

Born May 1st 1951 to parents Robert J. Gretz and Mary Eloise Gretz, he grew up in Gladwyne with his sister Suzanne, and brothers Steve and Michael. He rowed crew and ran cross country, and loved his summers in Ocean City NJ, where he was a lifeguard on the Ocean City Beach Patrol for many years. 

After graduating from Harriton High School, Rob went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Business from Villanova University, just like his father. In the summers, he spent time in North Carolina where he owned a surf shop. Post-college he owned a record store in New Jersey, where he met Susan Anderson, his future wife, originally from Charlotte. 

In 1982, Rob and Susie sailed up to Nantucket where they got married, and moved to Villanova. He joined his father in the family beer business, and later became CEO and co-owner of Gretz Beer Company. Gretz Beer Company was a highly acclaimed Anheuser Busch wholesaler, and one of the most respected craft beer distribution companies in the country.

In the past few years, Rob has split his time between Villanova, and Naples, Florida. He was an avid golfer, a long time member at Merion Golf Club, Aronimink Golf Club and recently, Hole-in-the-Wall Golf Club in Naples. He was also a member of Corinthian Yacht Club, and Naples Yacht Club. Sailing was one of his biggest passions, and he enjoyed sailing races with his friends, particularly Newport to Bermuda. He also loved skiing with friends, flying his plane, and playing tennis, most recently at Merion Cricket Club. 

Rob was beloved by all, his family and friends will always remember how kind, sweet and generous he was and especially how amazing of a husband, father and brother he was. He will be missed by everyone who knew him. 

He was the loving husband of 40 years to Susie, caring father to Mary Allison (James Gardiner) and Elizabeth, and wonderful brother to Suzanne, Steve and Michael and brother-in-law to Judith Cheston, Cathy Murray (Pete), John Anderson (Vivi) and Sally Hammer and beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews. 

A Funeral Service will be held on Thursday October 27, 11:00 AM at The Sanctuary of Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church, 625 Montgomery Ave., Bryn Mawr, PA. Relatives and friends are invited to a Visitation at the Church from 9:30 to 11:00 AM. Interment will follow in Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in his name to Jefferson Transplant Institute, select designation for Nicoletti Kidney Transplant Center