James C. Bretz, 74, of Walnutport, died Feb. 26, 2014, in the Summit at Blue Mountain Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Lehighton.

Born May 20, 1939, in Washington Township, he was the son of the late Albert P. and Julia (Rechtor) Bretz.

A 1957 graduate of the former Slatington High School, he faithfully and honorably served his country in the U.S. Army in Italy during a peacetime era.

Before retiring, he was employed at various Lehigh Valley businesses including Jay's Bread Delivery, Thomson's Meat Market, the former Keystone Lamp Factory and the former Bethlehem Steel Corp.

He also was a part-time bartender for several hotels in the Northern Lehigh Valley area.

His survivors include a brother, Albert and his wife, Theresa, of Whitehall; sister Julia M. Paul of Slatington; several nieces and nephews, many friends especially Mr. Kim Blake, who has been a loyal friend for many years and who has seen him through many rough times.

Expressions of sympathy may be recorded at heintzelmancares.com.

Memorial contributions may be made to AseraCare Hospice or to a charity of one's choice c/o the funeral home, P.O. Box 196, Schnecksville, PA 18078-0196.

Arrangements made by Heintzelman Funeral Home Inc., Schnecksville.