Edward A. Dietrich, 80, of Springfield, formerly of Cresskill, New Jersey, passed away on Friday, April 11, 2008 in the Springfield Regional Medical Center – Fountain Blvd. Campus.

He was born on May 3, 1927 in York, Pennsylvania, the son of William H. and Florence (Munchel) Dietrich.

After graduating from York Catholic High School, Ed went on to serve our country in the United States Merchant Marines and the United States Army during World War II and later attended American Theatre Wing Acting School. Edward worked for many years in the hotel business in New York. In addition to his hotel career he was a professional song writer and actor in New York. Ed was also a member of the Disabled American Veterans Association Chapter 13.

He is survived by three sons and daughters-in-law: Edward and Patricia Dietrich of Closter, New Jersey; Jeffrey and Diane Dietrich of Nashua, New Hampshire; and Thomas and Lynn Dietrich of Verona, New Jersey; one sister, Doris Myers of Springfield; six grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Mary A. (Schiavetti) Dietrich in 1999, and one brother, William Dietrich.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, April 14, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. at the LITTLETON & RUE FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY. Burial will be held in New Jersey at a later date.