George "Tony" Dietrich

Tony was born in Akron on August 2, 1943. He graduated from Akron North high school and attended Miami University, graduating in 1965. He was a member of the Mu Upsilon chapter of Phi Gamma Delta at Miami. He earned his JD from the University of Michigan law school in 1968. Tony served six years in the Army Reserve 350th Evacuation Hospital.

Upon his return from basic training in 1968, he joined the Akron law firm of Roetzel & Andress and began what would become a 45+ year career as a corporate attorney there. He became a partner in the firm and served on the Managing Partner Committee for several years. Tony enjoyed mentoring younger associate attorneys and seeing Roetzel grow from a small firm to a legal practice spanning several cities and over a hundred and fifty attorneys today.

During his time in Akron, Tony actively volunteered for the All American Soap Box Derby, serving as President for several years. He also volunteered for the Akron Beacon Journal Charity Foundation.

He and his wife, Ruth Ryder Dietrich, retired to Colorado, where he continued to engage in his passions for skiing, golfing, and hiking.

He leaves behind his wife of 56 years, Ruth, his son Philip (Christina) Ryder Dietrich of Columbus, Ohio, and his daughter Sarah (Patrick) Tay Brodhead of Denver, Colorado.

Tony’s life was enriched by his friends, peers, and many pets, particularly his longtime companion and loyal friend Keyno. His greatest love was for his family. He will be remembered as a fine lawyer, a loyal friend, and, most of all, a wonderful father and husband.

A service celebrating Tony’s life will be held at a future time.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish may donate to the Akron Beacon Journal Charity Foundation or to the charity of their choice.