Cover photo for James  Michael Retterath's Obituary
James  Michael Retterath Profile Photo
1938 James 2018

James Michael Retterath

August 2, 1938 — August 17, 2018

James Michael Retterath, age 80, of Rochester, died unexpectedly Friday August 17, 2018, at Madonna Towers of Rochester. James was born August 2, 1938, on the family farm in McIntire, Iowa, to Alfred and Rose (Rauen) Retterath. He moved to Austin, MN at an early age and attended Austin Catholic Schools. James served in the U.S. Army - Airborne Division. He was stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, Fort Campbell, and finally in Augsburg, Germany. On August 10, 1955, he married his childhood sweetheart, June Carmack of Austin. The couple lived their lives in Austin. James held multiple jobs including ambulance driver, laborer, and maintenance. James was an ardent supporter of unions and collective bargaining. He proudly served on the executive board for the local P-9 union. After residing in Florida for several years, the couple moved to Rochester in 2007 where he enjoyed spending time with family and friends. James enjoyed his final years living at Madonna Towers where he happily joined in the care of both residents and staff. James was a caring friend. He was quick with a joke, a story, and a sympathetic ear. He was known for his compassionate nature. He enjoyed golfing, fishing, travel, motorcycling, and mostly his beloved Minnesota Vikings. His first love was his family, and he especially enjoyed his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife June of Rochester; his son Ricky (Marsha) of St. Joseph, MN; daughters Jill Roche of Rochester; April (Mark) Munson of Castle Rock, CO; Lise (Brian) Mittag, and Ann (Scott) Williams both of Austin; eleven grandchildren; four great grandchildren; brothers Richard (Linda) of Eyota, MN; and Alan (Cheryl) of Lyle, MN; and his sister Patricia Retterath of St. Louis Park, MN. His parents and son Thad Hansen preceded him in death.

The funeral service will be 11:00 a.m. Wednesday at Madonna Towers Chapel with Father Joe Hennen officiating. Friends may call from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday at Mahn Family Funeral Home - Rochester Chapel, and one hour before the service at Madonna Towers, a reception will be held following the service. Private burial will be in Calvary Cemetery in Austin.

Mahn Family Funeral Home - Rochester Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Visitation

AUG 21. 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM (CDT)

Mahn Family Funeral Home, Rochester Chapel
1624 37th Street NW
Rochester, MN, 55901

Visitation

AUG 22. 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (CDT)

Madonna Towers Chapel
4000 19th Avenue NW
MN, 55901

Memorial Service

AUG 22. 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM (CDT)

Madonna Towers Chapel
4000 19th Avenue NW
MN, 55901
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of James Michael Retterath, please visit our flower store.

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