Obituary of Donald Shafer Fretz

It is with great sadness the combined families of Donald Shafer Fretz announce he has gone to see his Lord, after a brief illness, at the Port Colborne Hospital on April 26th at the age of 90.

Predeceased by his parents Grant and Viola Fretz, and brother Karl Fretz. Don is survived by his loving wife of 19 years, Bethene (Mater) Fretz. He will be sincerely missed by his sister-in-law Lorna Fretz, his brother and sister-in-law Jim and Vicki Fretz, nephews Brad, Derek and Rodney Fretz (spouse Ruby) and niece Holly Moore (spouse Derek), great-nephews Alexander, Aiden, and great-nieces Rachel, Lauren and Tara.

Don is also lovingly remembered by all the members of his spouse’s family: stepsons Ronald Mater (spouse Kathie), Rodney Mater (spouse Kathy) and stepdaughter Margaret Williams (spouse Robert). Grandchildren Julie Schultz (spouse Andy) Pastor Michael Mater (spouse Michelle), Vicky Bassingthwaighte (spouse Andrew), Eric Williams (spouse Bethany) Mark Williams (spouse Renae). Great-grandchildren Kaitlin, Joshua, Maria, Margaret, Jayden, Joey, Jensen, Jordyn, Kyla, Elsie, Laura, and Amelia. Predeceased by William, Deanna, and Matthew. 

Both the Fretz and Mater families would like to sincerely thank the 6th floor staff of the Welland Hospital and the 2W staff of the Port Colborne Hospital for the quality of care and attention given to Don in his time of need.

Visitation will be held at Williams Funeral Services, 722 Ridge Rd. N., Ridgeway, on Thursday, May 2, 2024 from 12:00 - 1:30 PM, followed by a Funeral Service in the funeral home chapel at 1:30 PM.  Burial at Bertie Brethren in Christ Cemetery, Church Rd., Stevensville to take place following the chapel service. 

For those wanting to send flowers, the family ask that no lilies be included as there is a severe family allergy. Donations in Don's Memory would be joyfully accepted if directed to Camp Kahquah.