Ricci Wilbur Fretz

Ricci Wilbur Fretz, 82, of Morganton died Sunday, September 1, 2013 at Grace Hospital. He was born on July 10, 1931 to the late Ricci Richard Fretz and Iris Catherine Andersen Fretz in Easton, PA and also lived in Boonton, NJ. After high school, he attended two years at Gettysburg College in PA. He then joined the US Air Force and achieved the rank of Captain, became a Senior Pilot and Squadron Commander. Ricci completed his degree at the University of Oklahoma while still in service. Following his prestigious years in the Air Force, he flew for TWA Airlines, worked for the NASA Space Program, AEC and retired from the Department of Energy. During his retirement, Ricci and his wife, Susan lived in Albuquerque, NM, Las Cruces, NM, Fallbrook, CA and Morganton. Ricci did not know many people in Morganton, but the ones who did know him will remember him for his colorful personality.Surviving are his wife, Susan Heim Fadeley Fretz of the home; sons, Ricci S. Fretz and his wife, Elizabeth and John N. Fretz both of California, a daughter Kim M. McAdory, a grand-daughter, Rebekah McAdory and stepsons Donald S. Flowers of Greensboro, and Brian M. Flowers of Morganton. He also left behind his loyal dog and companion, Louie.In addition to his parents, Ricci was also preceded in death by his godfather, Wilbur Thatcher.The family will have a private service at a later date.