Richard W. Betz

Richard W. "Dick" Betz, 91, of Franklin passed away at 3:30 A.M. on Friday January 5, 2018 at The Caring Place in Franklin.

On May 18, 1950, Dick married the love of his life, the former Geraldine Jane Deyoe at Grace United Methodist Church in Oil City and she preceded him in death on May 26, 2004. Dick and Jane are now reunited together in Heaven forever.

Born October 9, 1926 in Muzette, PA, he was the son of the late Emanuel L and Matilda M. Sandrock Betz.

Dick graduated from Hickory Twp. High School and enlisted in the U.S. Army in June of 1944. He served with the 104th Infantry "Timberwolf" Division in Germany and fought in the Battle of the Bulge.

Upon discharge from the Army, Dick graduated from the Clearfield Aviation Institute in 1948 as an aircraft and engine mechanic. He worked at the former Splane Airport in Oil City, then at the Chess Lamberton Airport in Franklin and then went on to work for the former Joy Manufacturing Company retiring in 1987.

He was a life member of the V.F.W. Post 464 in Oil City and the National Timberwolf Association. Dick enjoyed all things aviation, traveling, going to his Army reunions, and cruising with his beloved wife, Jane. (Dick and Jane, Always.)

Surviving are two children; Rev. David Betz and his wife Susan and Brenda O'Polka and her longtime companion Frank Hummel; five grandchildren, Rev. Erin Betz Shank and her husband Rev. Jason Shank, Laura Betz, Eric O'Polka, Evan O'Polka, and Alexander O'Polka.

In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his brother; Wilbur Betz and three sisters; Ardell Fogle, Phyllis Rhoads and Maxine Stephens.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Huff Funeral Home & Cremation Services Inc., 312 W. Park St. Franklin where family and friends are welcome from 4:00 - 7:00 P.M. Sunday.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Monday in St. John's Episcopal Church 1145 Buffalo St. Franklin, with Bishop Sean Rowe, officiating.

Military honors will be rendered by the V.E.T.S. Honor Guard at the church following the funeral service.

Interment will follow at Venus Cemetery where he will be laid to rest next to his beloved wife.

Memorial donations may be made to Emmaus Haven of Venango County, P.O. Box 682 Franklin, PA 16323.

Online condolences and flowers may be sent by visiting www.HuffFuneral.com.