John R. Rettele

John R. Rettele, 70, of Tecumseh, passed away unexpectedly March 10, 2021 at his home.  He was born to Joseph and Twila (Johnson) Rettele on August 2, 1950 in  Axtell,  Kansas.  He was one of eight siblings including his twin sister Judy.  

John graduated high school in Baileyville, Kansas.  John was a jockey for 23 years, following in the footsteps of his father and several brothers in the horse racing world. During his career, he reached over 1,000 career wins and was a Multiple Stakes Winning Jockey.  His hobbies included leather crafting and wood working and he often made handcrafted items for friends and family. 

He is survived by two daughters, Jamie (Johnny Kane) and Jonnie (Mustafa Shabib), three grandchildren: Kelsey Haines, Blake Haines, and Ashley Haines, four brothers, Dale and Richard of Troy, Michigan, Loren of Glendora, California, Marvin of Spring Branch, Texas; two sisters, Marilyn Ritter of Live Oak, Florida, and twin sister Judy Bergman of Danville, Iowa.

John was preceded in death by his father, Joseph Rettele; his mother, Twila Rettele of Tecumseh; and his brothers Larry Rettele of Lewisville, Texas; and Jerry Rettele of Bellwood, Nebraska and former wife Polly.

John was cremated and graveside inurnment will be held at a later date at the Sacred Heart Cemetery, Baileyville, Kansas.  

Online condolences may be left @ www.wherrymortuary.com.

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