Jack Dietrich

1930 - 2022

Jack Robert Dietrich
January 5, 1930 - August 1, 2022
Anna Maria, Florida - Jack Robert Dietrich, 92, went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on Aug., 1, 2022 with his family by his side. He was born in Columbia City, Indiana on Jan., 5, 1930 to Maxine and Robert Dietrich. As a young child he enjoyed being on his grandparents' farm. He attended Pasadena City College and then enlisted in the Air Force in 1951. He became an officer and was a fighter pilot. After the war, he was sent to Tyndall AFB in Panama City where he met and married the love of his life, Betty Robbins. After marriage, he earned his Masters degree while teaching at Bayshore and then became principal at Duette, Parrish, Anna Maria, Ballard and retired in 1992 at Moody Elementary.
Betty, his beloved wife passed away in 2010. The family enjoyed sailing and many happy times on the water and on the beach in front of their home. Jack adored his family and was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.
Jack had many talents and interests. He served as a Deacon and Sunday school teacher at the Island Baptist Church, a Gideon, a member and former President of the Island Rotary Club, and a former member of the Bradenton Yacht Club. He was an avid runner and ran the New York Marathon at age 56. He loved music, the piano, drums and playing the spoons. You could often hear music and laughter on his infamous "porch" where family and friends always gathered to watch sports or just sit and visit. Jack never met a stranger. He was generous, kind, happy and loving. He lived everyday with positivity and made an impact on every life he touched. His strong faith prepared him for his journey home to Heaven where he joined his beloved Betty.
He is survived by his children; Beth Conner and husband, Art, Jan Smith and Greg Dietrich; grandchildren; Mary Elizabeth Williams, Jessica Williams, Adam Smith and partner, Shannon, Amy Smith and partner, Leslie and Sarah Dietrich; great-grandchildren; Joliet Smith and Lincoln Young. A Memorial Service will be held at Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria, FL on August 13, 2022 at 1PM. Casual attire is recommended. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jack's name through The Anna Maria Historical Museum, 402 Pine Ave. Anna Maria, Fl. 34216, Island Turtle Watch, 6409 16th Ave. Dr. W., Bradenton, Fl. 34209 www.Islandturtlewatch.com and Tidewell Hospice 6310 Capital Dr. Suite 100, Lakewood Ranch, Fl. 34202 www.tidewellfoundation.org