Frank Theodore Dietz, age 75, passed away in his sleep Friday morning.

Frank, known as Ted, was born in Toledo,Oregon; son of Robert and Marie Dietz. He moved into Brownsville and spent his whole life in Linn County.

He married Esther Morgan on March 15, 1954. The couple lived in the Sweet Home/Lebanon area since their marriage. Ted was a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, and great grandfather. His extended family included many nieces, nephews, and friends. He was known by the young ones as “Papa Ted.”

He was known as a great talker, a hunter, a mechanic, and a jack-of-all trades. He loved music and cars, knives, and watches.

Ted was preceded in death by his son, Allen. He is survived by his wife, Esther; sons, Wayne Dietz and Dale Dietz, both of Sweet Home. He has nine grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren, and a large extended family. He has three brothers and two sisters.

Viewing will be from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m., Sunday, April 19, 2009 at Sweet Home Funeral Chapel. Funeral service will be at 1:00 p.m., Monday, April 20, 2009, also at Sweet Home Funeral Chapel. Burial will take place at Brownsville Cemetery. A reception will follow at the home of Esther Dietz, 38764 Finndrew Lane, Lebanon, Oregon.

Sweet Home Funeral Chapel is handling services.