William “Bill” Blanchard Bretz, 88

William (Bill) Blanchard Bretz, 88, of Green Cove Springs, Florida, boarded That Train to Glory Monday, February 13, 2017 at Haven Hospice in Orange Park. Born in Lebanon, PA, he was one of 13 children of the late Stewart and Bertha Mann Bretz.

William served as an Army Corporal in the 121st Transportation Company during WWII. Known as King of Strings, he played in the US, Germany, France and Italy in the Kings of Strings Band. Bill owned one of Jacksonville, FL’s largest recording studios,(Blanchard Recording Studio).

He was preceded in death by his wife Geneva Amy Anderson on March 2, 2015 and is survived by four children, William Bretz of Folcroft, PA, Wanda Bretz of Mesquite, TX, Barry Bretz of Aurora, CO and Kim Bretz Kemmerling of Pine Grove, PA. Bill has 8 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren and one remaining sister Gloria Bretz Kreidler.

Arrangements are under the care of Russell Haven of Rest Cemetery, Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 2335 Sandridge Road, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043.  Family and friends may share their condolences at: www.RHRFH.com 904-284-7720