James Michael Retterath, 80, of Rochester, Minnesota, died unexpectedly on Friday, Aug. 17, 2018, at Madonna Towers of Rochester.

James was born Aug. 2, 1938, on the family farm in McIntire, Iowa, to Alfred and Rose (Rauen) Retterath. He moved to Austin, Minnesota, at an early age and attended Austin Catholic schools. James served in the Airborne while in the U.S. Army and was stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, Fort Campbell, and finally in Augsburg, Germany. On Aug. 10, 1955, he married his childhood sweetheart, June Carmack of Austin. The couple lived their lives in Austin. James held multiple jobs, including ambulance driver, laborer and maintenance. James was an ardent supporter of unions and collective bargaining. He proudly served on the executive board for the local P-9 union. After residing in Florida for several years, the couple moved to Rochester in 2007, where he enjoyed spending time with family and friends. James enjoyed his final years living at Madonna Towers, where he happily joined in the care of both residents and staff. James was a caring friend. He was quick with a joke, a story, and a sympathetic ear. He was known for his compassionate nature. He enjoyed golfing, fishing, travel, motorcycling and, mostly, his beloved Minnesota Vikings. His first love was his family, and he especially enjoyed his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife, June of Rochester; his son, Ricky (Marsha) of St. Joseph, Minnesota; daughters, Jill Roche of Rochester; April (Mark) Munson of Castle Rock, Colorado, and Lise (Brian) Mittag and Ann (Scott) Williams, both of Austin; 11 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; brothers, Richard (Linda) of Eyota, Minnesota, and Alan (Cheryl) of Lyle, Minnesota; and his sister, Patricia Retterath of St. Louis Park, Minnesota. He was preceded in death by his parents; and son, Thad Hansen.

The funeral service will be at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 22, 2018, at Madonna Towers Chapel with Father Joe Hennen officiating. Friends may call from 5:30-7 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 21, 2018, at Mahn Family Funeral Home – Rochester Chapel and one hour before the service Wednesday at Madonna Towers. A reception will be held following the service. Private burial will be in Calvary Cemetery in Austin.

Mahn Family Funeral Home – Rochester Chapel is in charge of arrangements. Friends may share a memory at www.mahnfamilyfuneralhome.com.