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BORN
1932
DIED
2020
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Martin Bretl Obituary
Appleton - Marty Bretl, 87, passed away on Sunday, March 15, 2020, at Brewster Village, Appleton. He was born on December 13, 1932, in Star Neva, WI, the son of Martin and Harriet (Gallion) Bretl. Marty attended the Normal School in Antigo, following high school, and then later attended the University of Wisconsin Superior where he received his bachelor's degree in Fine Arts. He then moved to Nekoosa, where he taught Art in the public school system, he then moved to Kimberly to teach Art for Kimberly Junior High School, and he retired from there. Marty was united in marriage to Sandra Houston on July 4, 1964 at the Moravian Church in Wisconsin Rapids. He was a social person, enjoyed neighborhood get togethers, walking all over Appleton, often with his pets, and his time spent volunteering with Big Brothers & Big Sisters. Marty enjoyed traveling with Sandy to destinations such as Ireland, Hawaii, and Canada. He loved the Packers and WI Badgers. After retiring, Marty turned his artistic talents to transforming the backyard into rock formations and fountains. Cherry Court will also remember him for his outdoor decorating at Halloween and Christmas.
Marty is survived by his wife of 55 years: Sandy; a sister: Gayle Wentland; numerous nieces and nephews; his "little brother": Jesse Wiegert; his dog: Bogart "Bogie"; other relatives, and friends.
Marty was preceded in death by his parents; 5 siblings: Joan (Al) Herman; Gretchen (Louis) Uelman; Lois (John) Laehn, Patricia (Dick) Beattie; and Jerry Bretl; a brother-in-law: Allen Wentland; and his cat: Reggie.
A celebration of Marty's life will be held from 1:00pm to 4:00pm on Saturday, August 29, 2020, at Pullmans At Trolley Square, 619 S. Olde Oneida St., Appleton, with an informal memory sharing starting at 3:30pm. Both indoor and outdoor space will be provided to allow for all who wish to attend to feel most comfortable.
Marty's family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Brewster Village for their love and exceptional care. Marty's most repeated words were "I feel safe here!" They would also like to mention the "other family" they became acquainted with in the dining room, they sat together and talked or laughed while helping their spouses at mealtime.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Martin Bretl
Sponsored by Wichmann Funeral Home - Downtown Appleton.
Ann K
April 5, 2020
I remember Mr Bretl, art classes at JRGerritts Junior High School in the mid 1970s
Robert & Colleen Arko
March 29, 2020
Sandy, We are so very sorry to read of Marty's death.
Such a fine person, kind soul and great JRG co-worker !
Please know we are thinking of you at this sad time.
Sincerely, Bob and Coke Arko
Gina Mader
March 25, 2020
I used to be a server at Mary's family restaurant many years ago. Marty & Sandy used to come in regularly & we always enjoyed their visit. Always very nice & courteous. Marty always had a little twinkle in his eyes when he told a story. I sure miss those days!! Sandy, I am so sorry for your loss.
Trina
March 19, 2020
My deep sympathy Bretl family. As you grieve, may the comfort from God console you. Know that God cares for you.
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Karen (Bob) Wanek
March 19, 2020
Sandy,
We are so sorry to hear about Marty. We had so much fun together on those getaway weekends with the two of you and the Sticharts.
A future celebration of Marty's life is a great idea, and we look forward to sharing that time and many memories with others whose lives Marty touched.
Be safe in this uncertain world. We hope our paths cross again very soon.
Love,
Bob and Karen
Kevin Steers
March 18, 2020
Mr. Bretl was my junior high art teacher. I attribute much of my creativity and artistic ability to his teaching style and encouragement.
Thank you, Mr Bretl.
Dick & Terry Grosek
March 18, 2020
When I was Owner/Manager of Mary's Family Restaurant, I always looked forward to Marty & Sandy visiting us. They were always fun to talk with and enjoyed having them come in and their regular, almost daily visits. Marty and I shared many laughs back & forth. Thanks Marty ( & Sandy) for all those great times and memories. Dick Grosek, Retired many years ago from Mary's Family Restaurant
p.s.-We now live, full-time near Walt Disney World and so sorry that we won't be able to attend any future celebration of Marty's life.
March 18, 2020
This is a shock. We knew Marty and all of his family. Some were even related to us. He was a special guy , always caring and so talented. Wish we had known he was at Brewster. Will watch for his service. Dick and Theda Andres
Debbie Peters
March 18, 2020
Mr. Bretl was my junior high art teacher and I will always remember his gentle demeanor and creativity. My deepest sympathy to his loved ones.
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