Joseph "Joe" Everett Retterath
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Joe's obituary
Joseph “Joe” Retterath, 79
December 29, 1945 – August 3, 2025
Joseph “Joe” Retterath, 79, died peacefully at home in Eagan, MN, surrounded by loved ones, after complications from Parkinson’s disease.
Joe was born on December 29, 1945, in Stacyville, Iowa to Joseph and Effie Retterath. He was one of eleven children. Joe grew up in Stacyville, Iowa.
On November 28, 1964 Joe was united in marriage to Lynda Grinstead and together they raised two daughters. He spent almost all his working life as a Millwright.
Joe is survived by his wife of 60 years, Lynda (Grinstead); two daughters, Tami (Kris), Corinne (Chris); three granddaughters, Erin (Jason), Emily and Natasha; and two great-grandsons, Theodore and Jonah; sisters, Beverly Theobald, Dorothy Crooks, Mary Crooks and Martha Hoevet; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Mike, John, Gene, and Jim; sisters, Rosann Meyer and Phyllis Retterath.
He was known for his strong work ethic and wide range of skills. He could fix anything mechanical—big or small—and often did. Though not formally trained in any art, he could paint, draw, carve, and play any instrument with ease. He was a taxidermist too. He had a basic understanding of almost everything, and when he picked up a hobby, he mastered it.
Of his many hobbies he was an antique dealer who enjoyed repairing and refinishing furniture. He was also a talented woodcarver, particularly known for his duck decoys. In his earlier years, he was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting deer and waterfowl and taking family fishing trips to Canada.
Joe enjoyed gardening and caring for his koi fish, which he raised and showed through the local koi club and clubs around the country. He took great pride in his koi and the ponds he built and maintained for many years.
He loved spending time with his three granddaughters and great-grandsons. He was deeply appreciated by his family, friends, and coworkers.
His later life experiences allowed him to grow, developing a broader, more inclusive outlook. He was always quick to forgive those he loved.
When once asked what he would have done differently, he said he would have become a surgeon—and those who knew him believed he could have.
A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, September 14th between 1:30 and 4:30pm at Eagan Community Center, Eagan, MN. West entrance, Oaks Banquet Room.
Please email us any photos you might have of Joe so we can include them in the slideshow. Please email us if you'd like to send flowers. Please do not send flowers to the venue. doglearningcenter@yahoo.com
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