Dietz Brothers Co-Founder Dies in Accident
Jul 02, 2023 07:23PM ● By Mb News Staff
Pat Dietz. Photo via Dietz Brothers.
Pat Dietz, one of the founding brothers of the iconic music store Dietz Brothers in Manhattan Beach, was killed in an accident last week.
Dietz Brothers released the following statement over the weekend:
On Monday afternoon, after both teaching at our Summer of Rock music camp, Pat and his sixteen-year-old grandson Charlie went to a bookstore in Torrance. In the parking lot, two cars collided in what began as a fender bender but quickly turned into tragedy. One of the drivers lost control and accidentally accelerated into nearby pedestrians. Both Pat and Charlie were badly injured and transported to Harbor UCLA hospital.
Torrance police were shocked by what they saw when they reviewed security video footage of the accident. Not those of us who knew and loved Pat Dietz. He was not in the direct path of the out-of-control vehicle; he threw himself in front of his grandson and saved his life. Charlie suffered a concussion and many broken bones, but is home and will make a full recovery. Pat died of head injuries on Wednesday night, surrounded by his loved ones — his wife of 47 years, Carol, his brother John ,his daughters Kelly (and husband Nick), Robin (and husband Josh), and Carrie (and husband Matt), and his son Erik. The family brought guitars to the room and played him Lucinda Williams songs throughout his final day.
We take some comfort in the fact that Pat left us the way he lived with us: living for others while always staying boldly true to himself. The circle will remain unbroken.
Plans for a memorial are pending.
An online tribute to him has continued growing with more than 500 comments so far, with many calling him a "South Bay legend" who has touched countless students.
Dietz Brothers was founded by Pat and his brother John in 1976. It has been the home for generations of local students to learn instruments, form bands, and appreciate the joy of music.
