by Jefferson Graham
Pat Dietz, who with his brother John has run Dietz Brothers music shop in Manhattan Beach since 1976, died heroically Wednesday in a tragic accident in Torrance.
Dietz and 16-year-old grandson Charlie were visiting a Torrance bookstore when a driver lost control of the vehicle and started heading towards the pair as they crossing the crosswalk. Pat Dietz “was not in the direct path of the out-of-control vehicle; he threw himself in front of his grandson and saved his life,” said the statement from the family on Facebook.
“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.”
Customers and local officials turned to Facebook to pour their hearts out.
“Our sincere condolences,” said Manhattan Beach mayor Richard Montgomery. “Pat had an incredible impact on the South Bay.”
“My heart aches for Carol and the entire Dietz family,” said Steven Wynbrandt. “This is the saddest of the sad. Pat is a legend and a hero and his memory will live forever in all who knew and loved him and all who he touched through his love of people and music.”
