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John Szretter Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for John Szretter
Sunset in Maui
July 25, 2009
Pepe's on the River - Texas
July 25, 2009
Peace be with you Jack in "Vegas"
July 25, 2009
Good times
July 25, 2009
Jamie L. Smith
July 24, 2009
As I sit and remember you, my face stings as the flood of tears are brought to the surface. I think of times spent, and some moments that only you and I shared.
~mom packing lunches and heading to the mountains to cut wood for winter.
~watching you in all your glory as you finished the 'house that Jack built', toolbelt around your waist and cigarette in hand.
~cutting down the perfect christmas tree
~teaching me to shoot a rifle in Granby on a camping trip
~riding in the back of the truck to go get ice cream
And, as I got older...
~meeting me at court when I got a speeding ticket
~slipping me some money when I was home from college (don't tell mom ;)
~hittin' the lake to test ride our new jet-skis
~watching the crowd part and you in the distance waiting for a hug the night I got engaged
~meeting Madi together for the first time
~still feeling like a kid in awe of her daddy...even at 32
~praying with you in your last days
I could go on forever....
The legacy you leave behind is not only in physical offspring, but the countless memories of love, laughter, humor, wisdom, and even heartache. We will share these for lifetimes to come. The beautiful example you showed in everyday life is unsurpassed. You had a quiet way about you, but when you spoke, people listened. When I had questions, you had answers. When I was upset, you had the calm, simple spirit to ease me out of it. Your laughter, contagious. Your heart, generous. As I think of my own mortality, I think of God and of you...and I am inspired... to be strong, courageous, hopeful, loving, patient, humble, wise, creative, self-taught, spontaneous, smart, helpful, witty, honorable, trustworthy, generous, giving, hardworking, clever, God-loving, powerful, and forgiving. YOU were ALL these things, and more, Dad. As I quietly wait in expectation to meet up with you so that we may dance together once again...I will live out your legacy. Thanks for the LOVE and INSPIRATION!
With all the love I have to give,
Toot! :)
2Corinthians 4:18
Glenn and Brenda Hemry
July 24, 2009
Dana and Family,
I will always remember Jack and what a caring person he was.
I remember the hunting trips where he would always try and set it up so that the kids (Jason, Brett, and I) would end up with a better opportunity at a shot than himself. I only went a few times with him but I can only imagine this was always the case.
I remember him taking his pistol out on one of our trips and giving it to my son and showing him how to shoot it. It made both of their faces light up.
I remember Jason's birthday party (at the Knights of Columbus, maybe??)and how excited he was and how nervous he was because he wanted it to be perfect for his son.
I remember how much he loved his wife, his kids, grandkids, and his whole family. He was so proud of each and every one of them.
Jack touched everyone he came in contact with in one way or another. I will never forget what an awesome person he was and that he touched and changed my life.
July 24, 2009
Dear Dana and Family,
Even though it's been a year since Jack has gone, the fond memories he has left behind fill the emptiness in our hearts with joy. We will always remember what a great storyteller he was and how much his face lit up around his grandchildren. He was such a hard worker. You knew you could always count on him when you needed help. These are qualities that we hope our children will have. When we think of Jack we always have a smile on our face. In that way, he is still alive within us. Our prayers are always with you, Dana, Jason, and Jamie.
All our Love,
Tony & Pam Gallogly
Paul Ben & James
Ron & Jan Hemry
July 23, 2009
Dear Jack,
Ron and I have really missed your smiling face and great humor. You always kept people laughing and if your loved one needed to add something, you never had a problem with it. You have touched so many people that I'm sure you never realized just how many until now as you look down on us and we ALL miss you so much.
I do want to honor you by saying how proud we are of you and your strong family ties as a Husband, Father, Son, Son-in-law, Brother, Brother-in-law, Uncle, Grandfather and a friend and I'm sure many more. You have made your family very proud of you and we are really missing all your strengths.
Thank you for making us feel right at home the first time we met you and when you gave us a hard time we knew that we had touched your heart and you Jack, had touched ours.
You are the lucky one because you ARE in a better place with no more pain or suffering and to be with our Lord. He is saying "You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus". WOW, what more can I say.
We WILL meet again.
Jim Hunter
July 23, 2009
“RETTA”
“Retta” that’s what we call you
For your name is confusing to say
But there is nothing that is confusing
About all the love you’ve passed our way
Yes we love you Retta
This whole family that you’ve endeared
Your jokes have brought us so much laughter
Yes, you have given us such great cheer
I just wanted to tell you
That I, Jim Hunter love you so
From the first time I met you
I could see your heart of gold
Yes you have given yourself
To all of us in one way or another
And I wanted to let you know
That I do call you my brother
Oh Jack this is very hard for me
As I search for words to say
But you know and I know
That all of our paths will cross again someday
Yes Mr. Retta
You are truly one of a kind
Yes you deserve a thousand thank yous
For sharing with us your life time
Thank you for chasing Dana
And choosing this family
And teaching us to cut loose
And that our spirits were meant to be free
Yes you were always a daring soul
And a wonderful husband, father and friend
A teacher, a Grandfather, a sportsman
With always a helping hand to lend
You brought us jet skis and four wheelers
As a daredevil you were at your very best
You taught us all to live freely
And not to settle for anything less
Yes Jack Retta
You are truly one of a kind
And I love you, I love you, I love you
I love you a thousand times
As love is something I believe
One can take where ever they go
And as we keep yours and you keep ours
It shall forever be, the greatest love ever known
I love you Jack Szretter
Peggy Pihl
July 23, 2009
Dear Sister and Family,
It’s been a little over a year now that we lost Jack and still miss him terribly. Jack was one of a kind – he was more than a brother-in-law, he was my brother. He was always there to listen and help when needed, but he never judged. We would call him Jack of all trades, because he could make or fix anything and wasn’t afraid to try. Jack was a loving and caring person and he would do anything for you. If he teased and gave you a hard time then you knew that he loved you. He was a hard worker. We have a lot of great memories: our camping and fishing trips, getting firewood for the winter, celebrating birthday parties, barbeques and getting together for the Holidays. The one memory that I will cherish the most is dancing with Jack at “Pepe’s on the River” in Texas. We had sooooo much fun!
Thank you Jack for being my brother; you were such a special part of my life. I Love you and will cherish all my memories.
Julie Guire
July 23, 2009
Dear Jack:
It is very hard to lose a dear friend, but I still have wonderful memories of you. They will never go away. The beautiful family you have left behind is your legacy--a legacy you can be very proud of. I know you are with God and will be watching over them.
Dave Pihl
July 23, 2009
Jack
Who was he? He was a husband, a father, a brother (in-law), a good friend, and a talented Jack of all trades.
I first met Jack when I came into the family of Swanson girls. Jack and I did many things together, hunting, fishing, working on houses and garages and many more activities to numerous to mention. Jack was always there if I needed help. I was delighted when he needed help. There are many stories about us helping each other.
I remember he needed help on a dune buggy type 4-wheeler. The engine was located behind the seat. I removed the seat to take the engine apart. I was sitting on a milk basket, facing the rear and I was taking the engine apart. Let me set the stage. Jack had an exhausting talent. This would bring him happiness, some people it would be grief, including myself. I was no competition-he was the master. This brings us back to the 4-wheeler. I believe I had a gastric disrupting meal some time before the engine work. Jack and his son were very interested in the repair work. Jack was not one to let someone do something for him, without wanting to help and learn. He and Jason paid close attention. Well I guess it was my turn to exhaust a (rare at that time) talent of my own. I just disassembled a part of the engine and I let loose and OMG! I said, it was even hard for me to take the odor. With this exclamation and before I could give a warning, Jack inquisitively stuck his head down to the engine level (right above my lap) for an examination of the problem. Well now, did he ever let out a wail, kind of like, how could you do this to me. I can’t remember his exact words but I was in all my glory when he scooted to the furthest corner of the garage with a wrinkled up nose. How could it get any better? I’m here to tell you I got 2 for 1. Since Jack could not breathe and warn Jason, you guessed it…Now they were both as far away from me as they could get. I was choking with laughter. I will never forget that moment.
We did a lot together and with other family members. It is hard to put this down because your memories are distracting. Let’s see, motorcycling, boating, water skiing, jet skiing, cross country traveling, golfing, oh yes, when Peg and I went to Texas to see how the winter Texans live, Jack and I played golf together. We had played before in Colorado, but this was different. Jack had received a new set of golf clubs, so new he had not had a chance to use them. We were scheduled to play in a little tournament. Well I made a comment about having to play with his old set (I was just giving him a hard time-really; we did this all the time). He insisted that I use the new set. I said I was only kidding and he should be the one to break the seal on his clubs. He would not hear of it and again insisted. He told me since it was a tournament that he would feel more comfortable with his old set. I said OK and thanks. He did try out his new driver when we were at the tee boxes. He liked it a lot and felt he could get used to it easily.
I could just go on and on, but I better leave some room for others. Like I said it is hard to put this down while so many memories are flooding in.
I love you Jack and will miss you very much. Keep driving the ball from cloudy green to cloudy green. We will meet again some day.
Rocky Ruppert
July 23, 2009
Dear Jack,
I haven't known you long but the times we spent together visiting at family get togethers were real fun for me. We always could tell each other a new joke we hadn't heard before and thank you for that because others have enjoyed yours.
Just looking at you and Dana, anyone could see how much you two loved each other.
Thanks again for being a short time friend and helping me with the machines in Cripple Creek. I wish I had your touch.
Love Ya,
Rocky
July 22, 2009
Jack..We will always remember the fun times we had in Texas with you and Dana. You were always full of mischief and made us laugh.
We miss you and love you and know that you are in a better place and some day we will all join you...Patty & Jerry Leggett
Mom & Dad & Grandpa & Grandma
July 10, 2009
Dear Dana & Family,
Our thoughts are always with you remembering all the enjoyable trips that we took together & all the times you & Jack came to Vegas to see us. So many beautiful memories. We really appreciate all the work that Jack did for us making our lives easier & and taking care of us the way a son would take care of his parents. And thats how we felt about him, a son. The great times a family shares, hunting, fishing & camping trips even afternoon naps from the phone company, cracker crumb burgers and raw potatoes.
We loved him & miss him terribly.
Much love to you,
H. P. & Delma Burke
October 15, 2008
Dear Dana & Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficuly time as you try to adjust to each new day without Jack. We learned in a very short time in Texas to love the both of you. We will truly miss Jack for his upbeat attitude, his infectious smile, his humor, but most of all his warm hugs. He was truly a good friend that we feel we knew for a very long time. Dana, we will keep you in our prayers.
Love You,
Bev & Fred Kennis
October 8, 2008
Our prayers are with you and all of his family, he was a wonderful man and we know he is in a good place.
Carol Parks
September 24, 2008
Hi Dana and family, We were so sorry to hear of Jack's death. We were out of town most of the summer. Andy said he saw all of you at a volleyball game--maybe we'll try to come to one and catch up with all your family. You people were such good neighbors. If I'm remembering correctly, Jack took me to the hospital to pick up Larry (after back surgery) on a very, very nasty, snowy day. He was driving that big Ford truck--I was very grateful for his help. We loved you all, and we still think of you often. I am so sorry for your pain. When a man leads a good life, is a good husband and father it makes his passing even harder on those left behind. May God continue to bring you comfort each day. Sincerely, Larry & Carol Parks
Mike Casey
September 6, 2008
Mr. Szretter,
Sir, I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for our Country when you served with the U.S. Army in Vietnam. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.
Nicole Graham
July 22, 2008
You were here,
You got us threw,
You watched us grow
and played with us in the snow.
Always happy,
Even if everyone else was crabby.
You worked hard
but our Lord flipped your card.
You never judged
but instead always loved.
Winks and smiles
You had your way to cheer us up.
We prayed, prayed and prayed
and stayed by your side
You didn't seem to be getting any better
but we did see that you were a strong fighter
and held on tighter.
You were a fun, outgoing and energetic man who loved being outdoors, going camping and playing tricks on us.
You held no reserve in loving everyone no matter how much they may have messed up.
You were always forgiving and never had anything negative to say.
You lived an eventful life next to your best friend who you made your wife.
In the years you spent together you had two children who gave you two more and seven grandchildren.
Who love you more then anything, with a love that cannot be taken away from.
Just think that’s twelve people who have that tremendous love for you.
Not including the other hundred of us that have that have the same love for you.
Now as you sit and wait for us to rejoin you, just remember your always going to be on our minds in our hearts and you will never be forgotten.
God shows us again that he takes the greatest first and that life is too short.
So treat everyday like it's your last with no regrets.
Now the only thing we have left to do is wait until it is our time to begin a greater life that will allow us to reunite with you.
See you again one day Uncle Jack!
I love you!
David Martin
July 21, 2008
Jack, You are a husband, a father, a brother and a friend and so much more. I am proud to say that you are my brother-in-law, but more like a brother. I appreciate all the help and knowledge that you passed on to me as you did for so many of us. Jack, you are one of the most caring, giving and loving men that I have ever known. You will be missed but never forgotten and always in our hearts.
Linda Martin
July 21, 2008
Jack, I thank God for the 38 years that you were a part of my life. You were more like a brother than an in-law. I will forever remember all the great and fun times, especially the camping trips. I miss you so much and I love you with all my heart. Be free like a butterfly.
Shannon Newcomer (aka Sheward)
July 18, 2008
Dana, Jason, Jamie & family,
I am so sorry to hear about Jack's passing!! I didn't find out until after the services, I really would have liked to have been there! You are all in prayers!!
Susan Pease
July 15, 2008
Dearest Jack,
I have felt for my whole life that you instead of my brother-in-law, were my brother. I was only four when you entered my life only to grow up and have you see me as an adult one day. Sometimes I even saw you as my own dad being invited to be part of your little family. You & Dana took me camping and shared yourselves with me, as sometimes I never would have experienced the things I got to do with you guys. Never sure of when you were just "kidding" or when you were serious but that was part of the fun. I miss you terribly! Those last days with you were some of the most moving, spiritual days of my life. You said thank you to me for trying to make you feel better but I thank you my dear brother for allowing me the priviledge to serve you before you left us. In your passing, there have been things that I feel were made good. Dad, I believe may see the light now, there is peace about death and I am not afraid either. Kinda look forward to seeing you again and meeting Jesus myself. I will hold onto the promise that your sickness will not end in death but in new life bringing glory to God, as His Son will be glorified too. He will also bring comfort to those of us who mourn, and will wipe away all of our tears. My husband and children miss you too as you touched all of our lives with all of your love & humor. Brenna will always call you her "boy" and will always see you pushing her on the swing. Perhaps you can push her again someday. Oh Jackie Retta I miss you and may the grace of the Lord Jesus be with your spirit.
Until we meet again,
Soozie
Linda Vesco
July 11, 2008
To all in Jack's family: Jack was simply the BEST with whom I have ever worked. The entire COIN department feels your loss. I will be remembering him, with a smile, when I encounter similar and mutual situations I enjoyed with him, for the rest of my life. I'm so fortunate to have known Jack. Please accept my heartfelt sympathies.
Rena Emrick
July 9, 2008
Jack, Jack, oh Jack. The great coin man at the telephone company. The man that gave so much of himself to his job, to his family and his friends. I will miss you so much but have fond memories as many others do too. The greatest gift you have left me is my friend and buddy as she was yours, Dana. Also, the wonderful children you have and their spouses and children. Yes, because of you, your love and personality will carry on through them. Thank you Jack, God Bless you on your new journey. I will miss you.
Gary Wurster
July 5, 2008
Dana and Family,
Sorry to here about Jack,just found out yesterday. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Gary & Patsy Wurster
Chelsea Szretter
July 1, 2008
My grandpa and my one and only papa. He meant so much to me, and i miss him so much. He cared and watched after me for my whole life, and taught me so many things. he taught me how to be strong, because he was the strongest man i knew, and no matter what never gave up. i will never forget his kisses and hugs he gave me, because those to me mean more then anyone could ever imagine. i will never forget him always picking on me, and giving me a hard time. i will never forget the times where he came and supported me through volleyball, and was there whenever he could be, cheering me on. you will always be in my heart papa. and i will see you again one day, where we will rejoin, and our laughters and good times will be endless. my memories of you will be everlasting. I love you papa. Thank you for being the greatest grandpa i could ever ask for. love your grand daughter, chelsea.
Brian Hall
June 27, 2008
To Dana, Jason, & family,
Sorry to hear about Jack & missed the services. He was a great person to work with. He will be missed. You are in our thoughts & prayers.
Samantha Dias
June 25, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Jack was and always will be in out hearts.
Samantha Dias
June 25, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Jack was and always will be in our hearts.
Wedding 2
June 25, 2008
Wedding 1
June 25, 2008
Marilynn Farrington
June 25, 2008
Jack was a kind loving man that always had a smile for everyone. My profound sympathy and prayers to all of his family and friends.
carole o'connell
June 25, 2008
To Dana & Family:
My deepest sympathy on the passing of your husband & father. You are in my prayers, & for Dana, a special prayer & hug-you are in my heart...carole o'connell
Stanley Smith
June 25, 2008
Jack - you were a strong, kind, gentle man who by nothing more than being Jack raised an equally strong family. I know this Jack because I have seen the loving dedication & strength of Dana, Jason, & Jamie in the wake of your passing & I know you are smiling that knowing loving smile as you watch them too. We will endure the grief and pain if only to demonstrate to you how strong you made everyone around you and do so by knowing that you suffer no longer and have risen to fall at the feet of Jesus Christ our savior.
You took me in Jack, in all my imperfections & loved me regardless; you gave me your princess to be my wife & in so doing forever changed me and the course of my life; you showed me how to be both a man's man & a loving father and husband. For all of these things and so many more I am eternally grateful....but you know this because I told you so.
I love you Jack and promise again that we will be OK, we will endure, we will love, we will laugh, in short we will be the living proof of your legacy. I miss you Jack
Sam Heizer
June 25, 2008
Dana, Jason and family,
I was sorry to hear about Jack. I always enjoyed working with him and enjoyed his sense of humor. May God grant you peace and comfort.
Steven Graham
June 25, 2008
You surely are and will be missed.
Krista Wurster
June 25, 2008
i love my uncle jack and always will, he had a great life and personality. Everyone will miss him, think about him, but will always lovw him.
Angela Wurster
June 25, 2008
To lose Uncle Jack is one of the most difficult experiences we are trying to endure. We are all at a loss for words. There is one thing we can say is that we love you with all our heart!
Uncle Jack was a very kind and caring person with lots of love in his heart. He never seemed to have any worries and could always put a smile on your face.
To recall the special and wonderful memories he has left for us to remember, we will cherish the special place in our hearts that will always be reserved for him. We thank him for the gift of his life that he brought to each of us.
We love you Uncle Jack and will miss you greatly!
All Our Love,
Angie, Brian, Brittany, Nicole, Brandon, Krista and Blake
Cindy Berquist
June 25, 2008
Dana, Jason and extended family: I wish to extend my deepest sympathies on the passing of my dear friend Jack. I will certainly miss his e-mail travel updates and his voice on the other end of the phone. I've been very blessed to have had him in my life, first as a colleague and than as a lifelong friend. God's blessing to you all.
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