Herbert Gretz

Herbert G. Gretz VIRGINIA BEACH - Herbert G. Gretz, 82, died peacefully Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2009, at Lake Taylor Transitional Care Hospital after a long illness. Herb was born in Philadelphia Dec. 1, 1927 to Herb and Mabel Gretz. He grew up in Drexel Hill, Pa., and graduated from the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School of Business following an Army tour of duty in Germany. Herb had a long career as a sales representative with Johnson & Johnson which took him and his young family to Atlanta. While in Atlanta, he began a life of civic activity and volunteering for many groups. A career change brought his family to Virginia Beach in 1971, where he ended up returning to his sales roots, eventually opening his own medical sales recruiting company, Herb Gretz Associates, whose legacy is carried on by his son, David. He was chosen to be a charter member of the First Interview Network, which is the first independent group of its kind for the recruiting industry. Herb continued his volunteer duties lending his time, energy and incredible personality to civic leagues, condominium boards, and most of all to the Cape Henry Rotary Club. He was also very athletic, carrying his volleyball playing from the swim club in Atlanta to the beaches along Shore Drive. When the Virginia Beach Tennis and Country Club was built, Herb was one of the initial members and enjoyed many years of tennis, and later visiting the club to play bridge with his long time friends. He competed in the Senior Olympics, taking home several gold and silver medals. At the age of 70, he competed in Sand Soccer at the Oceanfront. Herb was predeceased by his parents; his brother, Bruce; and his beloved wife of 52 years, Greta. He is survived by his sister, Shirley Brunke of Philadelphia; son, David Gretz; daughter, Carol Lare and her husband Mike of Virginia Beach; and four dearly loved grandchildren, Ashley Gretz of Atlanta, David Gretz Jr., Matthew Gretz, and Ana Lare, all of Virginia Beach. The family would like to express their sincere appreciation the ICU nurses at Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital, and especially to Dr. Montejo and the staff at Lake Taylor Transitional Care Hospital. A church service will be held at 1 p.m. Monday in the Virginia Beach Christian Church, 2225 Rose Hall Drive, Virginia Beach. Burial will follow at Princess Anne Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Cape Henry Rotary Club, P.O. Box 5743, Virginia Beach, VA 23471. H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts., Laskin Road Chapel, is handling arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.hdoliver.com.