Doctor Deitz
Contents
Birth
Wallace E. Deitz, M.D., was born in the town of Berne, November 21, 1856,[1] the son of John G. Deitz and Lydia J., a daughter of John H. Engel of Berne.[2]
He was the Great Grandson of Johan Jost Deitz who built a house in the 1780s at the end of Rock Road, now owned by Steven and Amy (Osterhout) Anderson.
Education
Wallace was educated in the common school district. At the age of eighteen he began for himself, continuing his schooling winters. Urged on by his success in his studies, he was soon enabled to secure a certificate to teach. He was then engaged in teaching and studying until 1877, when he passed the State examination and soon after entered the Albany Medical College, from which he was graduated March 3, 1882.[2]
Occupation
He was a Doctor. He began to practice his profession in Howe's Cave, Schoharie county, two years later removing to Berne, where he has since resided, enjoying a large and lucrative practice. He owns a farm, also a saw mill, which he superintends. He is a member of the Albany County Medical Society and the I.O.O.F, Orion Lodge No. 624 in Gallupville, of which he is past noble grand.[2]
Marriage & Children
Wallace married Dora Ball (1816-1920).
In July of 1889, Dr. Dietz married Theodora, daughter of David Ball and Louisa Rheinhart of Berne. They have an adopted daughter.[2]
Death
Wallace died in April 26, 1928.
Obituary
DR. W. E. DEITZ BERNE RESIDENT, DIES AT AMITYVILLE
Entered into rest, at Amityville, L. I., on Thursday, April 26, 1928, Wallace E. Deitz, M. D.
Dr. Deitz was born in the town of Berne, Nov. 21, 1856, of Dutch and German ancestry, from whom he inherited a sturdy frame and vigorous constitution. From boyhood he struggled with undaunted energy and high ambition to attain an education that should prepare him for the life work of a physician. In 1882 he was graduated from the Albany Medical College; and after a brief interval of practice at Howes Cave, he came to the village of Berne in 1884. From that time his history was identified with that of the town and surrounding countryside.
He was twice a widower during the early years of his life in Berne. In 1889 he married Theodora Ball, youngest daughter of David Ball, whose death occurred in 1920. Since that time he lived in his home with an adopted daughter, Katherine (sic) who survives him.
Dr. Deitz possessed an unusually happy disposition, and his presence in the sick room brought cheer to both patient and nurse. Absolutely devoted to his profession, the call of duty never failed to receive his instant attention. Born in the country and familiar with country conditions, he was never at a loss in an emergency. No storm to severe for him to face, no road so impassable that he would not attempt to travel it. Many were the times when, leaving the road in the darkness of night, he would break his way across drifted fields to the home where there was need of his presence. He was that 'rara avis' - the country doctor - the memory of whose loyalty and constant self-sacrifice will be but a legend to coming generations.
Nearly twenty-five years ago Dr. Deitz suffered from a nervous condition that threatened his continued practice; but his indomitable courage and persistent effort resulted in almost complete recovery.
For more than a year he has been slowly breaking under the strain of physical weakness; and his friends have grieved at the evidence of his failing powers. As special care was needed, he was removed to a home for physicians on Long Island, where his death occurred.
The funeral service on Sunday afternoon was in the Berne Lutheran church, where the doctor was for years a member. The sermon was by Rev. P. C. J. Goeree, pastor of the Reformed church, a personal friend of Dr. Deitz. The Maccabees of Berne and the Odd Fellows of Gallupville, were present as an evidence of their respect for an honored member. The beautiful burial service of the Odd Fellows was held at the close of the service.
Besides his daughter, Dr. Deitz is survived by a sister, Miss Laura Deitz of Albany, and a brother, Charles Deitz of Slingerlands.
"Thou hast been faithful over a few things; I will make thee ruler over many things. Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord."
Published in May 4, 1928 Altamont Enterprise
Additional Media
Wallace Deitz on right, maybe 
Doctor Deitz's home and the law office next door
Sources
