Kay Ann Retzlaff

Her Legacy Kay Ann Retzlaff, 67, passed away January 12, 2022. She was born on July 24, 1954, in Sturgis, Michigan to Wayne Meyers and Gretchen Cottrill.
At her core, Kay was a lover. One of the fiercest in the world. The biggest benefactors of her love are her family: husband, Roy; daughter, Leslie; son-in-law Matthew; and grandson, Peter. Kay viewed all children as if they were the most important in the world. But her grandson, Peter, was the light of her life. Their favorite way to spend time together was reading books and making and eating food. Through this she instilled a sense of adventure, bravery, and a love for reading--traits that Peter will carry with him throughout his life. By profession, Kay was a teacher. But she was more than that, she was a true educator. She advocated for others, specifically young children and those with unique needs. After a seventeen year career in Special Education, she and Roy established Teddy Bear Day Care & Learning Center. She worked here until her last days, side by side with Leslie. Her legacy of joy, adventure, and love lives on through the many children, families, and teachers lives she has touched. Roy and Kay built more than a business. They created beautiful lives built on unconditional love. Often marriage is talked about as each spouse bringing 50-50. Their pastor who married them 43 years ago, encouraged them instead to always bring 100. Kay applied this universally, bringing 110 to everything, but especially their marriage. The two shared a passion for adventure and travel, which took them around the world. Kay's favorite trip was to South Africa where they rode bikes with a tower of giraffes. Rebuilding without Kay will be painful. She was the family's fixer. But she loved so deeply while she was here, they will carry that with them as they do so.
Please leave a message of comfort for Kay's family at 1-877-231-7900, or sign her guestbook at www.borekjennings.com.