Oliver "Ollie" Kretzer Obituary (1930 - 2012)

Oliver "Ollie" Kretzer, 82, of Pana, died Wednesday, June 6, 2012 in his residence. He was born April 20, 1930 in Wyoming, IL, the son of John Hinsey Mary Helen (Zinn) Kretzer. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, and came to Pana in 1967. Ollie worked as a journeyman electrical lineman for Central Illinois Public Service for 32 years, and retired as an electricity utility foreman. He enjoyed ham radios, camping, fishing, traveling, and spending time with his friends, family, and dog Sheba. Ollie was a 51 year member of the Masonic Lodge; member and Past Worthy Patron of Arcana Chapter Order of Eastern Star; 27 year charter member of the Pana Eagles Aerie #4109, where he was instrumental in getting the charter for the club; life member of the VFW Post #8967 in Port Aransas, TX; IBEW #702 for over 32 years; assistant boy scout leader for Troop 67 in Taylorville; and instrumental in getting Troop 99 in Pana active. Oliver Kretzer and Patricia Illeene Talbert were united in marriage on November 19, 1951 in Galesburg, IL. He is survived by his wife: Patricia Kretzer, Pana, IL; children: Mike Kretzer wife Becky, San Antonio, TX; Patrick Kretzer wife Sue, Taylorville, IL; Kristi Meid husband Jeffrey, Leavenworth, KS; David Kretzer wife Lisa, Leander, TX; and Peter Kretzer, Cedar Park, TX; 9 grandchildren: Eric, Melissa, Tosha, James, David, Matthew, Cody, Kayla, Katelyn; 3 great grandchildren: Jackson, Lila, Trent. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Margaret Wilkinson; brothers: John Hughes Gordon Kretzer. Funeral Information A celebration of life service will be held on Sunday, July 1, 2012 at the Pana Eagles Club, 186 U.S. Hwy 51, Pana, IL 62557 at 11:00 a.m. beginning with Eagles Rites by Pana Eagles Aerie #4109, Masonic Rites by Pana Masonic Lodge AFAM #226, military rites by Pana Veterans Honor Guard, followed by a time of food and fellowship until 3:00 p.m.