Family members, friends, and patients gathered at Hopkins County Memorial Hosptital, on Thursday afternoon, to reflect on 35 years of service to Hopkins County, by EET Doctor, William "Bill" Dietz, and wife, Peggy. Actively involved in all facets of the Hopkins County community, from church, school, and medical, the doctor and his family have added to the quality of life, since moving here in 1974. The Cuero, Texas, native, moved his family to Hopkins County and opened his practice, following a residency at the University of Texas Health Sciences Center in Galveston, and spending time in the military.

"Bill Dietze is one of the most highly respected men in Hopkins County for his caring attitude, Christian example, and life of service," commented Enos L. Ashcroft, Jr., a longtime friend. "And, he can talk you into opening your pocketbook for any of his favorite charities! Why, he almost talked me into getting into a casket at West Oaks Funeral Home to show that he got some of the money that I had planned to take with me!"

 

 

Friends and family members joined together to honor Bill and Peggy Dietze.

 

Then, former colleague, Dr. Ronald Stanley, came to the podium and had the entire audience in an uproar, as he explained his many years of association with Dr. Dietze. "About the only way that I can describe Dietze's contribution to Hopkins County, is to say that he has more than likely dug a dump truck load of ear wax out of Hopkins County!"

"And, you know Bill, likes those miniature horses of his," continued Stanley. "Well, about the only reason that I can figure that he is retiring, is that he plans to go on the 'miniature horse rodeo circuit!" And, of course he will get him a great big belt buckle the size of a platter, and be roping chihuahuas!

Bill and Peggy Dietze, joined by their children and grandchildren, then greeted guests until they were almost worn out, as so many came to relate special stories, associations, and projects that they had served together on.

"We're not going to let him retire!" warned Michael McAndrews, CEO at Hopkins County Memorial. "We're going to just say he will be operating in a different role!"

 

 

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