Sponsored Sponsored content Ryan W. Gretz, 22 (Obituary Brought to You by Heintzelman Funeral Home)

Ryan W. Gretz (2004 – 2026)

Ryan W. Gretz, a young man whose heart was as strong as the steel he worked with, passed away tragically on April 24, 2026, following a car accident in Lower Macungie Township. He had just celebrated his 22nd birthday three days prior. Born in Bethlehem on April 21, 2004, Ryan is the beloved son of Emily C. Keck and Kenneth R. Gretz. A lifelong resident of Coopersburg, Ryan was a proud graduate of Southern Lehigh High School, Class of 2022. On the football field, he was known for his dedication, teamwork and a spirit that never backed down from a challenge–traits he carried into every aspect of his adult life. Ryan found his calling in the art of metal fabrication. As a skilled welder for Shoemaker MFG Solutions Inc. in Souderton, he took immense pride in his craft, building a reputation for hard work and precision. Beyond his professional life, Ryan was entering the most beautiful chapter of his personal journey. He was deeply in love and engaged to be married to Daisy E. O’Reilly of Mashpee, Mass. Together, they continued to build a relationship in Harleysville with the same warmth and kindness that Ryan gave to everyone he knew. Ryan’s greatest joy was found in the simple things: the bond with his family, his love for sports and the loyal companionship of his dogs, Sox, and new canine, Max. He was a pillar of strength for his brothers and a light in the lives of his parents.

SURVIVORS

He is survived and deeply missed by his parents: Emily C. Keck and Kenneth R. Gretz; his fiancée: Daisy E. O’Reilly; his brothers: Travis E. Gretz and Dylan R. Gretz; his grandmother: Debra M. (Albright) Keck; and his extended family, including many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends who became family. Ryan was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Jay S. Keck, and his paternal grandparents, Charles and Judith Gretz.

SERVICES

Family and friends are invited to gather and celebrate Ryan’s life on Friday, May 1, 2026, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Southern Lehigh Living Memorial Park (100 E. Fairmount St., Coopersburg, PA 18036). The Celebration of Life service will begin at 3 p.m. A memorial ride will conclude the service. In the park where he spent so much of his youth, we will say our final goodbyes to a young man who left us far too soon. Expressions of sympathy and shared memories may be left for the family at Heintzelmancares.com.

CONTRIBUTIONS

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that contributions be made in Ryan’s memory to Tails of Valor. Please send checks to Heintzelman Funeral Home Inc., 326 Main St., Hellertown, PA 18055.