Neal Kretchman

Neal Kretchman, 89 died Friday May 13, 2016.
He was born Frederick Neal Kretchman

to the late Fredrick and Anna Kretchman, June 6th, 1926
in Benton Harbor, Michigan.

Neal served in the navy on the aircraft carrier Randolph in WWII as
Fireman Second Class. He was honorably discharged in 1945, He married
Mildred Jewell in 1946 and they have shared their love for 69 years.

Neal was an avid farmer from childhood in Scottdale, Michigan. Since
moving to Cheboygan, he has continued planting a huge vegetable
garden, You would see him in his beloved garden from dawn to dusk.
He gave away a large portion of his harvest to those in need, He was a
terrific carpenter for many years and everyone knows him best from
Kretchman’s Donut Shop. He had an artistic eye and it showed in his
beautiful wood carvings,

Neal served as Sunday School Superintendent for 23 years at St. Pauls
Methodist Church and St. Thomas Lutheran church in Cheboygan. He
joined the Indian River United Methodist church in 1981 and has
sponsored several pilgrims in the Walk to Emmaus, He sang in the church
choirs for more than 35 years. He was active in many organizations
including founder and president of The Cheboygan Area Snowmobile
Club, he was a member of the Fair Board, Cheboygan Lions Club, and he
served as president of the Cheboygan Chamber of Commerce.

Neal is Survived by:
his wife, Mildred,
Daughters, Linda LaClair (Donald) of Tampa Florida,
Darleen Beauchamp (Edward) of Cheboygan and
Son, David Neal Kretchman (Theresa) from Boyne City.
He is also survived by 12 grandchildren, Randall Carlson, Kelly Leonard,
Diana Euler, Tracee Beauchamp, Nancy Milkamp, Bailey Swenor,
Cathryn and Amanda Rowland, Mike LaClair, Lisa Williams,
Denice Baker, Kevin LaClair and their spouses.
He was preceded in death by:
one granddaughter, April LaClair.
He has 23 great grandchildren and 9 great great-grandchildren,
He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by Sisters, Elinor Jesswein and Allene Rohleder
and one brother, DaleKretchman.

A Celebration of Life will be held on June 11th, 2016 at 11 a.m. at the
Indian River United Methodist Church.

Cremation has taken place and arrangements are being made through
Beck Funeral Home in Rogers City.

Donations may be made to the Indian River United Methodist Church
building debt retirement fund.