LEAF RIVER – Harold Dietrich, 97, passed away at home on 11/30/20 after a 22-year battle from being injured in his livestock trailer. Harold was born Dec. 12, 1922, in Green Castle, Pa., the son of Russell and Cora (Drury) Dietrich.
When he was 5 years old, he moved with his family to Leaf River. He graduated from Byron High School in 1941. He married Lois Richardson, the love of his life, on Sept 5, 1952 in Polo. They spent 68 years together and they loved roller skating in the early days of their marriage. He worked in various factories while helping on the farm and custom baling for many farmers in Leaf River and Byron area. They lived in Leaf River until 1958 when they purchased their farm and spent the rest of his life doing what he enjoyed doing, raising cattle, hogs, soybeans and corn. He especially enjoyed running the combine in the fall.
Survived by wife, Lois Dietrich of Leaf River, daughters – Beverly (Terry) Olson of Oregon, Kristine (Burns) Mullins of Wytheville, Va., Karen (J.B.) Northrop of Byron, sons – Randy and Mark of Leaf River, 6 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren, 7 step-grandchildren and 4 step-great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews; brother Jason (Betty) Dietrich of St. Valley.
Predeceased by parents, brothers Lloyd, John, Robert and Russell Dietrich and sisters, Elizabeth, Irene, Pauline and Dorothy.
The family would like to thank Ogle County Hospice and all the workers that assisted with the family. Special thanks to Nicole Molnar and Tina Champlain.
No services are planned at this time due to COVID restrictions.
In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to Serenity Hospice and Home, 1658 S. IL Rt. 2, Oregon or Rockford Rescue Mission in honor of Harold. Arrangements are being handled by Finch Funeral Home, Mt. Morris.
