He was born in Streitheim, Germany, a small village near Augsburg, on November 16, 1959. Dieter was the husband of Patricia and &dquo;papa&dquo; of Sebastian Streit. He is also survived by his mother, Herta Streit, and sister, Christa Dietrich, both of Germany.

After graduating from the university as a mechanical engineer, Dieter worked for over 20 years at Erhardt+Leimer, Inc. in Germany, Italy and the United States.

Personally he was passionate about using technology to create harmonious solutions to global challenges. He loved traveling the world, hiking the mountains with his family and playing the Didgeridoo at the campfire. Dieter will be deeply missed by his family and many friends and colleagues, especially for his warm smile and quick wit.

An interfaith memorial service was held at Morning Glory Farm in Mill Spring on Friday, September 18, 2009 at 3 p.m., followed by a gathering to celebrate Dieter&squo;s life.

Contributions in his memory may be made to Hospice of Carolina Foothills, 130 Forest Glen, Columbus, N.C. 28722.

An online guest register is available at www.mcfarlandfuneralchapel.com.

McFarland Funeral Chapel, Tryon.