Freda Mae Bretz

Freda Mae (Hickman) Bretz, age 71, passed away peacefully on February 23, 2026, in Bartlesville, Oklahoma. She was born in Tulsa, OK, to George Hickman and Helga (Hardtke) Hickman on August 4, 1954. Freda was a devoted wife, mother, nana, sister, and friend. She graduated from College High School with the Class of 1972 and then attended Patricia Stevens Finishing School and College in Wichita, KS, with an emphasis in Secretarial Studies.

She was united in marriage to Allen Bretz in July of 1975 and were blessed to celebrate their 50th anniversary with close family members in 2025.

After more than 30 years in the banking industry, Freda retired to enjoy other activities. She was a devout member of the First United Methodist Church in Bartlesville where she served on numerous committees. She also enjoyed playing mahjong, bridge and other activities with friends and was a member of a local PEO chapter. However, her biggest joy came from spending time with her husband, children and grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband of 50 years, Allen; her children Matthew (Regina) Bretz of Bartlesville; Amanda (Dan) Phelps of Broken Arrow; Hayley (Nick) Swaim of Bartlesville; sister Grace (Scott) Farmer of Bartlesville; and grandchildren Jaz Bretz, Caroline and Holden Swaim. She also leaves behind numerous cousins and three nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents, grandparents and numerous other family members.

A visitation will be held, Monday, March 2, from 5 – 7pm, at Arnold Moore and Neekamp Funeral Home. Funeral service will be held at Bartlesville First United Methodist Church on Tuesday, March 3, at 10am. Arrangements have been entrusted to Arnold Moore & Neekamp Funeral Home. Donations in her honor may be made to Hopestone Cancer Support Center of Bartlesville, 206 SE Frank Phillips Blvd., Bartlesville, OK 74003 or the Washington County SPCA, 16620 State Highway 123, Bartlesville, OK 74006. To leave an online condolence, visit www.honoringmemoriesbartlesville.com.