Richard J. Bretl, 89, Appleton, passed away Friday, August 19, 2016, at Wisconsin Veteran’s Home, King. He was born on December 23, 1926 in Antigo to the late Clarence and Viola (Huybers) Bretl. Richard proudly served in the US Navy in Okinawa during WWII. He married Elizabeth O’Brien in Antigo on September 4, 1948 and worked for the American Can Co. as a truck driver for over 40 years. Richard enjoyed boating, water skiing and fishing.
Richard is survived by his children: Marie Lee Bretl, Bradenton, FL; Thomas C. Bretl, Appleton; Sue Ann Copeland, Orlando, FL and Larry J. (Connie) Bretl, New London, WI; Grandchildren: Richard T. Bretl, Appleton, Rhea Hogden (Erik) Ettrick, WI., Jason (Amber) Copeland, Orlando, FL., Anna (Nasur) Wolfgramm), Orlando, FL., Amanda (Kyle) Laedtke, Oshkosh, WI and Amber Bretl, Minneapolis, MN.; Great-grandchildren: Kalani Wolfgramm, Reef Wolfgramm, Bailey Copeland, Katelyn Hogden, Aubrey Hogden, Paige Laedtke and Claire Laedtke; Sisters-in-law: Christine O’Brien and Marlene Bretl and many nieces and nephews.
Besides his parents Clarence and Viola Bretl, Richard was preceded in death by his wife Elizabeth , son Richard C. Bretl, sister Arliss and brother-in-Law, Philip Spychalla, Wausau, WI., brother Michael Bretl, FL., Brother-in –Law Robert O’Brien, Arizona and Son-in-Law Douglas J Copeland, FL.
The Mass of Resurrection will be celebrated at 11:00 am on Thursday, August 25, 2016 at St. Edwards Catholic Church, Mackville, WI with Father Walter Stumpf officiating. Burial will be in the parish cemetery immediately following mass with military honors. Family and friends may call at the church from 9:00 am to 11:00 am on August 25, 2016. A memorial fund is being established.
The family would like to thank his homecare givers and the staff at the Wisconsin Veteran’s Home at King, with a special thank you to Barb Kohanski.
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