John G. Retke

Memorial services for John G. Retke, 85, Lecompton, will be at 6 p.m. Monday at Lecompton United Methodist Church. Cremation is planned.Mr. Retke died Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2008, at his home.He was born Sept. 9, 1923, in Poole, Neb., the son of Fritz and Mathilda Nee Lehman Retke.Mr. Retke served in the U.S. Army for three years during World War II. He worked in construction in Madison, Kan., and was co-owner with his wife of Retke Kennels in Lawrence and Lecompton. They raised German shepherds and Great Danes, and offered boarding services to dog owners. He and his wife shared a great love of animals.He was a member of Lecompton United Methodist Church.Mr. Retke married Barbara Joan Heaton in Kingsley, Iowa, on April 10, 1952. She survives, of the home.Other survivors include two daughters, Mary Beth Retke Rich and her husband Timmy, and Melissa Transue, both of Lecompton; a sister, Margaret Kirby, Dallas; and two grandchildren, Jonathan and Ashley Morris.Mr. Retke was preceded in death by two daughters, Joan Retke in 1957 and Lori Ann Retke in 1971; four brothers; and six sisters.The family suggests memorials to the church or the Alzheimer’s Foundation, sent in care of Lawrence Funeral Chapel, 3821 W. Sixth St., Lawrence, KS 66049.Online condolences may be sent at barnettchapeloaks .com.