Carl Fretz, Class of 1948

Imagine taking your Oxford diploma, in the month after you graduate, to a beginning job in a local bank. As the years pass you work hard, take courses in banking, demonstrate your skills, and assume more responsibilities as promotions come your way.

Finally you reach the top: you’re President of the bank that’s at the financial center of the Oxford community, the source of mortgages for young families, loans for enterprising business people, and a host of other services. And throughout the 50-plus years you’re with the Peoples Bank you never lose the humility, sincerity, integrity, and compassion that characterized you as a young man.

The preceding words give a mere outline of the working career of Carl Fretz. They cite his abundant leadership skills, which were quickly recognized by his own bank and by the Chester County Bankers Association, to which Mr. Fretz gave distinguished service as President.

But it was in the Oxford community that Mr. Fretz displayed the most of his dedication and involvement, and here are some examples:

• President of the Lions Club, a major service organization
• Vice President of the Union Fire Company and of its ambulance association
• Founding member of the Oxford Athletic Association
• School board member
• Board member of the Oxford Area Historical Association
• Board Chairman of Oxford Mainstreet, Inc.

Therefore, in recognition of a lifetime of service to the Oxford community, Oxford Area High School is pleased to include Carl Fretz in the first group of Distinguished Alumni.

—John Bradley