Ruth Joyce Retzke Obituary

Ruth Joyce Retzke, 93, formerly of Bridgman, passed away Monday, October 5, 2026 at the Caretel Inns in St. Joseph.
 

Celebration of Eternal Life will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, October 12, 2026 at Peace Lutheran Church in St. Joseph with Pastor Brent Walker officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the church. Ruth will be laid to rest next to her husband Edwin at Graceland Cemetery in Bridgman. Contributions may be made in Ruth’s memory to the Peace Lutheran Church, 3590 Lincoln Avenue, St. Joseph, MI 49085. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Starks & Menchinger Chapel in St. Joseph, 2650 Niles Road, St. Joseph, MI 49085, 269-556-9450. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.Starks-Menchinger.com.
 

Ruth was born May 6, 1933, to Henry and Alma (Best) Valerius in Benton Harbor. Ruth married Edwin Charles Retzke at the Immanuel Lutheran Church of Bridgman on August 25, 1961. They shared 43 years in marriage before his passing in 2004. Ruth enjoyed tending her flower gardens, especially appreciating Day Lillies. Ruth was also a globe trotter having traveled the world with her husband Edwin in earlier years. Ruth loved animals especially birds and cats. The family would like to express heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Caretel Inn for their care over eight years.
 

She is preceded in death along with her parents and husband by brother – Roger Valerius and longtime friend – Paul Klug.

Ruth is survived by her long-time friends Terry and Cindy Meiners and Jeff and Karen Ziebart.