Orrin Bernard Retka

Orrin Bernard Retka, age 90, of Montgomery, formerly of St. Thomas, passed away on Monday, September 14, 2026, at The Lutheran Home in Belle Plaine. 

Orrin was born on January 18, 1936, in St. Peter to Bernard and Florence (Peterson) Retka. He began his education at the country school in St. Thomas before attending Le Sueur High School, graduating with the Class of 1953. Following his education, he enlisted in the United States Army and served a 16-month tour in Korea as a radio mechanic before receiving his honorable discharge. 

While attending a dance, Orrin met the love of his life, Janet Schoenbauer. They were united in marriage on August 31, 1957, at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in New Prague. Together they made their home on the Retka family farm and raised their eight children. Orrin and Janet shared 60 years of marriage before Janet passed away on May 12, 2018. 

After the army, due to his experience as a radio mechanic, Orrin began working for Univac. However, the call to farm was too strong and he soon joined his father. Farming truly was Orrin's lifelong passion. He would say that to plant a seed in the ground is to have faith in the Lord. He raised livestock and worked the land, tending to the crops that sustained the family farm. He was proud to pass this passion on to his son, Luke, who later worked alongside him until Orrin's retirement in 1991. Yet, Orrin gladly continued to help whenever he was needed. 

After retirement, Orrin discovered his second great passion - golfing. He and Janet enjoyed wintering in Mission, Texas, where they made many cherished memories. Orrin also enjoyed playing cards, reading, and woodworking. He was a lifelong member of St. Thomas Catholic Church, a member of the Montgomery American Legion, and a charter member of the St. Thomas Sportsman Association. Orrin was a devoted husband and a loving father. Blessed be his memory. 

Orrin is survived by his children: Maggi and Mike Morse, Carol and Dale Schneider, Luke and Alice Retka, Therese and Dave Russell, Rose and Brian Norvet, Henry Retka and Deena Anders, Peter and Jean Retka, and Sarah and Tim Rothstein; 19 grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Gene and Sharon Retka; sister, Sue and Will Schill; in-laws: Catherine Retka, LeAnne Retka, Ann and Lawrence Koenig, and Doreen Schoenbauer; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. 

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Janet; his parents, siblings, brothers-in-law, and sisters-in-law. 

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, September 25, 2026, at St. Thomas Catholic Church in St. Thomas, Le Sueur County, Minnesota. Interment will follow at St. Thomas Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will begin at 9:00 AM and continue until the time of service at the church on Friday. Memorials may be made to St. Croix Hospice. 

SchoenbauerFuneralHome.com