Kenneth Joseph (K.J.) Retterath, 88, of Adams, Minnesota, died peacefully in his home on April 28, 2018.

Ken was born April 18, 1930, in Stacyville, Iowa, to Michael and Anna (Heimer) Retterath of Meyer, Iowa. Ken joined the U.S. Air Force prior to the Korean War.

Ken married Annabelle Blake, also of Meyer, on Sept. 27, 1950, and the couple built their first home in Adams in 1951.

Ken was a building contractor and business owner of K.J. Retterath Builders of Adams for 50 years. Ken established a residential subdivision in northwest Adams. He built countless homes and agri-buildings around the region. He established Adams Builders Supply, Adams Agri-Builders, and Austin Builders Supply. Ken served as mayor of Adams in the 1960s and was also on the Adams Fire Department. Ken was a skillful and avid card player. Later in life, he and Annabelle enjoyed boating on the Mississippi River with his family. His children were the most important to Ken.

Ken is survived by his four children,13 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, Russell and Lahoma Retterath of Adams and their children, Michael Retterath, Laura Retterath, Robert and Jenna Retterath, Jessica, Bianca, Easton;  and Charlotte (Retterath) and Randy Thill, Logan, Sheila (Retterath) and Joy Blom of Austin, Minnesota, and their children, Simone (Tessar) and Ryan Fenske, Audrey and Ethan; Alex and Kasey Tessar, Piper; Sara Blom, Coleman and Sarah Blom, Kia; Julie (Retterath) and Steve Hackensmith of Austin and their children, Alison (Hackensmith) and Dan Boeder, Emma; and Greg and Courtney Hackensmith; Kelvin and Susie Retterath of Mound, Minnesota, and their children, Kole, Kwin and Kade.

Ken was preceded in death by his wife, Annabelle; and his parents, Mike and Anna Retterath.

The family honored his wish of a private memorial Mass and burial on May 2 at Sacred Heart Cemetery. The Adams Legion Post conducted a military service at the cemetery. Memorials may be given to Sacred Heart School of Adams or donor’s choice.