Melvin Rettinger, of Antigo, died Saturday, December 3, 2011 at Eastview Medical & Rehabilitation Center. He was 88 years old. He was born on June 17, 1923 in Antigo, a son of Wolfgang and Elizabeth (Schmoll) Rettinger. He married Helene Kauffman on May 10, 1947 in Antigo. She preceded him in death on March 2, 2008.

He was a graduate of Antigo High School with the class of 1942 and served with the United States Army in the Philippines from 1943-1945.

After service Mr. Rettinger was employed at Antigo Milk Products, Toburen Photography and the Kingsbury store. For 23 years he was a custodian for the Unified School District of Antigo.

For many years he was his wife's primary care giver. After her death he enjoyed trips to Milwaukee and to Mexico to attend his granddaughters wedding. He was an active member of Peace Lutheran Church and he enjoyed the company and friendship he had with the other Monday night money counters. His hobbies included woodworking.

Survivors include a daughter Lynn (Gerald) Baker, Wauwatosa; two grandaughters Theresa Baker and husband Jeremy Dornacker, West Bend, Erin Baker and her fiancee Mike Bernhard, Milwaukee; a great-grandchild Ariana Baker-Dornacker; a brother Alvin (Virginia) Rettinger, Antigo; two sisters-in-law Patricia Rettinger, Bryant, Fran Rettinger, Manitowoc.

In addition to his wife he was preceded in death by five brothers, Ervin, Gordon, Gilbert, Wolfgang Jr., and Norman Rettinger; four sisters, Christine Drab, Loretta Pansch, Mable Stuewar, and Bernice Rettinger.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday at 11 a.m. at Peace Lutheran Church with Rev. Scott Kruse officiating. Burial will take place in Elmwood Cemetery where the Antigo veterans will conduct military rites. Visitation will be Tuesday from 4-7 p.m. at the Bradley Funeral Home and Wednesday from 10 a.m. until the time of services at the church.

Services