Richard A. Dietrich

Richard Albert “Dickie-Bird” Dietrich of Preston, MD died on Friday, March 7, 2003 at Memorial Hospital at Easton. He was 69. Born January 17, 1934 in Easton, MD, he was the son of the late Emil and Bertha Seaman Dietrich. For over 25 years he owned his own business, “Dietrich’s Painting and Home Improvements”. He was an excellent contractor and took great pride in his work. Richard had a gigantic, wonderful and goofy spirit. Nobody could tell a story quite like him-just being around him was enough to make you feel good. He cared about all the little things in life. He loved to tend to his yard and was extremely proud of his flowers. He would “piddle” in his garden for many hours and liked to brag about the tomatoes that he grew. He would joke about the bunnies eating the tops of his flowers off, yet he would make sure the bunnies were fed. He always made sure the birds and squirrels were fed as well, building them feeders and houses with his own hands. He loved animals, especially cats. He recently befriended a new kitty “Black and White”, whom he immediately made a house and home for. He is also missed by his cat of over 17 years, “Ugly”. He enjoyed “penny poker”, playing cards, and Bluegrass music. He enjoyed spending time at the flea market and was very proud of his ability to find a “good deal”. Those who love him miss him deeply. He will be remembered for his silly sense of humor and his unique and special spirit. His spirit was always larger than life. His bright eyes, his wonderful smile and his silly laughter will remain in our hearts and continue to make us smile. Those who knew him and loved him were lucky. Please remember him by being kind to an animal, feeding the birds, planting a flower or maybe even just a silly story. He would like that. Mr. Dietrich is survived by his wife, Peggy Dietrich; three daughters, Deanna “Dino” Dietrich-Bramble and her husband, “Art-ie” of Preston, MD, Ilene Hearn of Millsboro, DE and Diane Turner of Ocean View, DE; three step-children, Jay Covey and Jeff Covey, both of Preston, MD and Jenny Covey Chance of Oxford, MD; and a brother, Teddy Dietrich and his wife, Carol of Seaford, DE. A sister, MaryAnn Dietrich Simmons and a brother, Robert Lee Dietrich are deceased. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, March 13, 2003 at 11:00 AM at Fellows, Helfenbein & Newnam Funeral Home, P.A., Easton, MD, where friends may call one hour prior to the service. Burial will be at Junior Order Cemetery, Preston, MD. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Caroline County Humane Society, Inc., 407 West Bell St., Ridgely, MD 21660.