Gertrude Bretz

Gertrude Bretz, age 95, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by members of her loving family.  She was born in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio on December 12, 1925 to Joseph Huffman and Margaret (McElroy) Huffman.  Gertrude was a graduate of Strong Vincent High School.  On April 7, 1956 she married Richard Bretz, with whom she had three children.  Gertrude worked at Weschler Shoes, Bucyrus Erie, Loyal Christian Benefit Association and at RGIS Inventory Specialists.  She retired in 2000 at the age of 75. 

Gertrude, or “Gertie” or “Grandma Gert” as she was affectionately called enjoyed attending sporting events and was an avid fan of the Erie Seawolves and the Detroit Tigers, even attending a World Series game in 2012.  Her favorite pastime was always being the number one fan for any of her grandchildren’s sporting events!  She loved to travel with her family visiting the Caribbean, Hawaii, Alaska and Mexico.

In addition to her parents, Gertrude is preceded in death by her husband Richard, brothers Leo and Joseph, sister, Elizabeth and son-in-law, Tim Lewis.

Gertrude is survived by her three children, Kathy Lewis, Paul (Laurie) and Craig Bretz and six grandchildren, Daniel Lewis, Michael (Camilla) Lewis, Jeffrey Lewis, Andrew (Morgan) Bretz, Stephen Bretz and Patricia Bretz.

Gertrude will always be remembered for her infectious smile and bubbly personality.  She loved attending mass at St. Peter Cathedral and having dinner at Ricardo’s Restaurant or the Erie Yacht Club.  She was happiest when her children and grandchildren were near her.  She will forever be missed but never forgotten!

A private mass was held Saturday, December 26, 2020 in St. Peter Cathedral followed by burial in Lakeside cemetery. 

Memorial contributions may be sent to St. Peter Cathedral 230 West 10^th Street, Erie PA  16501 or Emmaus Ministries 345 East 9^th Street, Erie PA  16503.

Arrangements by the Quinn Funeral Home, West 9^th & Liberty St.