Dr. William D. Hetrick

Dr. William D. Hetrick, age 81, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2025, at home in Gibsonia, PA, surrounded by his loving family. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Bill's life was defined by his deep love for his family, his strong faith, and his dedication to his work as an anesthesiologist.

He is survived by his beloved wife of fifty-eight years, Patti (Bryan) Hetrick, with whom he shared a lifetime of love and partnership. He was a proud and caring father to William Bryan Hetrick; Susan (Hetrick) Rihn, Gibsonia, PA; Kristen Hetrick, Raleigh, NC; and Bethany Hetrick, Cleveland, OH; father-in-law to Christopher Rihn; and future father-in-law to Sayf al-deen Said. He also leaves behind his sister, Elizabeth (Beth) Hetrick Corley, Columbia, SC; his brother Charles Hetrick and sister-in-law Mary Hetrick, Wooster, OH; and their families. He was preceded in death by his parents Jack and Anna Hetrick, brother-in-law Gene Corley, and son William Bryan Hetrick. Bill's legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren, Ben and Maria Rihn, who brought him immense joy and pride.

Born in Joplin, MO, Bill grew up in Butler and Grove City, PA. He graduated from Grove City College and the University of Pittsburgh Medical School, completing his residency before spending two years in the Public Health Service in New Orleans, LA, and then returning to practice in Pittsburgh. During his career, he served as chair and program director for the Mercy Hospital of Pittsburgh Department of Anesthesiology, and clinical associate professor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. He was a member of many professional organizations including the American Society of Anesthesiologists, the International Anesthesia Research Society, and the Pennsylvania Society of Anesthesiologists. He was highly regarded in his field, published in many professional journals, and served as an examiner for the American Board of Anesthesiology.

Bill will be remembered for his kindness, his generous spirit, and his appreciation of a fine meal and a nice glass of Scotch. He touched the lives of countless friends, colleagues, and patients, while remaining a steadfast presence in those of his family members. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A visitation will be held for family and friends at H.P. Brandt Funeral Home at 1032 Perry Hwy, Pittsburgh, from 4-7 PM on Friday, August 1st, and a funeral service will be held Saturday, August 2nd at 10:00 AM at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church of Perrysville (920 Perry Hwy, Pittsburgh), where he was a long-time member. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Bill’s memory to UPMC Family Hospice or the charity of one’s choice.