Alvin C.

Retka

Alvin “Al” C. Retka, age 90, of Brandon, passed away on Monday, November 9, 2026, in his home under the care of Hospice of Douglas County.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, November 13, 2026, at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Brandon with Fr. Jeremy Theis officiating. Music is provided by Paul Malecha. Interment will take place at the church cemetery.

Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church.

Alvin Carl Retka was born the fourth child of six to Leo and Sophia (Rasinski) Retka on October 16, 1936, at Randall, Minnesota. He grew up on the family farm working side by side with his dad. He attended Long Prairie High School and graduated in 1956. Al’s first job was having his own milk route. Later he hauled cattle to South St. Paul. He had a job in Adrian, where he met and married his wife, Beverly Koens in 1963. They lived in Brooklyn Park, where they raised their son, Tim, and daughter, Theresa. Al worked at Brooklyn American Motors for several years. In 1989, they moved to Holmes City where he worked as a mechanic in Alexandria. Then in 1996, they moved to Brandon. Al lost the love of his life when Beverly died after 33 years of marriage.

Al worked as a certified auto technician for over 30 years. His greatest joy and special talent was the ability to locate water for anyone drilling a new well. After he retired, he owned and operated Quality Upholstery for 5 years in Brandon.

Al met and married Margaret (Diekmann) Peterson, on November 21, 1997, whose friendship and presence brought him renewed joy, companionship and adventure. Al will be remembered for his gentleness and quick wit. He could do anything he put his mind to and make anything he needed. He enjoyed camping, fishing, making wine, volunteering at church and was a KC member.

Al is preceded in death by his parents; wife Beverly; sisters, Joan and Evelyn; and brothers, Alfred and Edwin

He is survived by his wife, Margaret; children, Tim (Becky) Retka and Theresa Retka; brother, Richard (Barbara) Retka; sister-in-law, Maryann Retka; many nieces and nephews; stepchildren, Catherine (Mike), Rose, Glenn (Karen), Angela (Wayne), and Melissa (Robin); and step-grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Pallbearers are Bob Retka, James Retka, John Retka, James Fults, Craig Peterson, and Doug Diekmann.

The family would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the staff of Hospice of Douglas County for the care and compassion shown to Al during his final days.

Memorials are preferred to Sharing & Caring Thrift Store or Life Connections.