Mr. Joseph A. Retkowski

Joseph A. Retkowski (Joe), of Sykesville/Eldersburg, Maryland, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on June 11, 2024, at the age of 81. Joe is survived by his wife, Marilyn (Kane) Retkowski, of 57 years, his children Joseph M. Retkowski (Denise), Karin Frank (Eric), and Gregg Retkowski (Leslie), and his grandchildren Brooke Lingenfelder (Tyler), Lacy Harbison (Devin), Taylor Retkowski, Hannah Retkowski, Michael Retkowski, Gregory Retkowski, and Andrew Retkowski. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Born at home on Polish Hill in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on December 3, 1942 to Leon Retkowski and Agnes Kolczynski, Joe was the youngest of 6 children. He was predeceased by his siblings: Eleanor Retkowski, Frances Gregorczyk (Leo), John Retkowski (Ann), Helen Taylor (Ed), and Patricia McMurdy, as well as nephew Gerald Gregorczyk and great niece Jessica Gregorczyk. Joe attended Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic School and Central Catholic High School in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. He was employed as a Printing Press Mechanic by Heidelberg, USA in Columbia, Maryland. He enjoyed working with his hands, building decks, sheds, and fences for his loved ones. He coached baseball and basketball for his children and enjoyed playing softball and basketball as well. Joe was an avid watcher and talker of many sports, especially his Pittsburgh Steelers. His love for these activities was passed down and shared with his children and grandchildren. Hardworking and personable with a light-hearted demeanor, Joe will be remembered for his easy smile and patient nature. His sense of humor and willingness to lend a helping hand endeared him to many. He cherished the close relationships he built throughout his life, especially with family, coworkers, neighbors, and friends. The family wishes to extend a special thank you to neighbors Phil, Larry, and Julia for their many years of kindness and support. Joe will be dearly missed by all who knew him. He worshipped at St. Joseph’s Catholic Community in Eldersburg, MD and was a member of the Knights of Columbus, Council #7612. A Catholic Mass will be held on Friday, July 12, 2024, at 11AM at St. Joseph's Catholic Community, 915 Liberty Road, Eldersburg, Maryland 21784. A bereavement luncheon to follow in the Parish Hall. Arrangements made by Haight Funeral Home & Chapel, 6416 Sykesville Rd, Eldersburg, Maryland 21784. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Bridging Life, 292 Stoner Avenue, Westminster, Maryland 21157 in Joe’s honor. Interment is private.

Mr. Joseph A. Retkowski

December 3, 1942 - June 11, 2024