Gary "Chief" Reetz

Gary "Chief" R. Reetz, 67, Wausau, died Friday, January 8, 2016 with family at his side at Hospice House, Wausau. He was born September 17, 1948 in Wausau, son of the late Lawrence and Ruth (Schubring) Reetz. On June 27, 1970 he married Kathleen Wood at Our Savior's Evangelical Lutheran Church. Gary graduated from Wausau Senior High in 1967. He retired as a Chief Boatswain's Mate in the United States Coast Guard after 20 years of service. After retirement he attended Lakeshore Technical College and studied small engine mechanics. In his younger years he enjoyed golfing, playing pool, shooting couples league darts and bowling. He also enjoyed country music, old movies and was an avid Packer fan. Survivors include his wife, Kathy Reetz, Wausau; children, Gary (Alitha) Reetz Jr., Crystal Lake, Illinois and Vicki Karo, Wausau; grandchildren, Austin, Kyle, Melissa, Kimberly, Dallin, Brianna and Aiden Reetz, Paige, Faith and Dylan Karo; mother-in-law, LaVerne Wood; sisters-in-law, Chris (Ernie) Scott, Sharon Vachavake and Brenda (Kent) Dolloff; brothers-in-law, Rick (Marcia) Wood, Gary (Deb) Wood and Wayne Degner; many other nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister Diane Degner. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Monday, January 11, 2016 at Our Savior's Evangelical Lutheran Church, 703 Flieth Street, Wausau. Rev. Robert M. Edwards will officiate. Visitation will be Monday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of services at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Wausau, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com