Richard L. Kretsch, age 86, a resident of Sussex, entered eternal life on Saturday, January 17, 2026.

Richard was born on December 14, 1939 in Manitowoc to the late Roy and Shirley (Gerroll) Kretsch.  He graduated from Kiel High School with the class of 1958.  While in high school, Richard served in the United States Navy Reserves, and then went on to serve his country in the United States Navy until his honorable discharge.  He then completed his education by graduating from UW Milwaukee where he obtained his Bachelor's Degree.  On June 10, 1967, Richard married Jonell M. Masar at St. Paul's Catholic Church in Manitowoc.  He worked at Allstate Insurance for nearly 40 years, retiring as regional vice president.  In retirement, Richard started his own business, Pet Chef Express, which he owned and operated for 20 years.  He was a car enthusiast – especially British sports cars.  Richard was passionate and proud to have fully restored a 1960 Triumph TR3A.  He took an active interest in being a part of his grandchildren's lives, cheering them on at their many soccer games and horse shows.  Above all, he enjoyed spending his time with his family.

Survivors include Richard's wife of 58 years, Jonell; two daughters, Kimber (Jeff) Bartosiak and Meghan Kretsch (Bruce Rudolph); two grandchildren, Jacob (Angela) Bartosiak and Jordan Bartosiak; two sisters, Karen Habermann and Kristine Stonehouse; two sisters-in-law, Nancy (George) Koller and Mary Masar; also other relatives and friends.  Richard was preceded in death by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Thomas and Leona Masar; brother-in-law, Scott Stonehouse; and sister-in-law, Laurie Mendenhall.

Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, February 20, 2026 at the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home.  The memorial service will conclude with military honors accorded by American Legion Drews-Bleser Post 88.  Deacon Alan Boeldt will officiate with inurnment to follow at Calvary Mausoleum.  Cremation has taken place at the Harrigan Parkside Crematory and Chapel.  The family will greet relatives and friends at the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home on Friday, February 20, 2026 from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the memorial service at 11 a.m.  Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com

The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, North 11th and St. Clair streets, Manitowoc is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.