Burnell "Barney" Rettig

Burnell “Barney” F. Rettig age 91, of Holgate, died Saturday night, July 1, 2017 at Vancrest Healthcare Center of Holgate.

His Legacy… He was born January 26, 1926 to Richard and Matilda (Arps) Rettig in Flatrock Township.  He attended Holgate High School.  Barney was a United States Army veteran serving time during WWII and was awarded many medals of honor.  He was an active member of St. John’s United Church of Christ, Holgate.  He was a farmer, parts man for the Ford garage and church custodian.  He married Sharyn Chrobarger October 1, 1957 and she died March 25, 1995.  On June 28, 1997 he married Charlotte Norrick Meyer.  Barney was a former member of the Holgate Lion’s Club, The Henry County Tractor Club, Holgate American Legion and the New Bavaria VFW, and presented countless flags to families at military funerals.

His Family… Barney is survived by his wife, Charlotte; children, Terry (Linda) Rettig, Holgate, Franell (Greg) Nelson, Holgate, Jerry Rettig, Holgate, Robin (Ed) Seuc, St. Louis, MO, Timothy  Meyer, Holgate, and Andrew (Marsha) Meyer, Napoleon; 2 grandchildren; 13 step grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren; 3 step great grandchildren; 1 great, great grandchild; and one sister, Martha (Barney) Zimmer, Napoleon.

His Farewell Services… Friends will be received in the Zachrich Funeral Home, 114 William Street, Holgate on Wednesday from 2-8 pm and again one hour before the church service.  The celebration of Barney’s life will be on Thursday, July 6, 2017 in St. John’s United Church of Christ, Holgate at 11:00 am with Reverend David Orr officiating.  Burial will follow in the church cemetery with military honors accorded by the Holgate American Legion and the New Bavaria VFW and AMVETS.  Contributions made in Barney’s memory can be made to St. John’s United Church of Christ.