So sorry to hear of Wilf’s passing.  I spent many hours with Wilf and Arlene over the years.  My deceased husband Archie and I would visit several times a year either on Shettleston St. or at the cottage.   They in turn would visit us several times a year in Sundridge.  After Arlene passed away Wilf and I would keep in touch through phone calls. 
Family was so important to Wilf and he would look forward to his children visiting at the cottage.
I have so many fond memories and cherished our friendship over the years.  My condolences to each of Wilf’s children .. Joanne, Janice, Jim and Judy.  May all the precious memories carry you through these hard days.
Marilyn MacKay

As a young person I remember my dad visiting Wilf at his garage and of course, Wilf would fix my dad’s car if there was something wrong with it. He was a very good friend to my dad. I believe there were a few men who met at the garage just to chat. He filled the hole in my dad’s life when my mom passed. 
Many years later I had the privilege to meet Wilf again when he came to Temple Baptist Church with Arlene to different events. He certainly was a very kind man who was very well respected. 
Marilyn Jones

Condolences to Wilf’s family and loved ones. Our family lived right across the street from the Texaco garage on Maple Street (back then). As new immigrants,  Wilf made us all feel so welcomed. He always had a smile and treated with warmth and kindness.  He is the definition of a real gentleman. 
God bless and  may he rest in peace.

My dad ( Alex Brenner Jr. ) spoke very highly of Mr.Rettinger and I remember his kindness to me .Sincere condolences to the Rettinger family.
Karen Brenner

My father knew Wilf quite well through Knights of Columbus and church. He was a very kind hearted man.
My condolences

Condolences to the Rettinger Family!
Rest in Peace Wilf .

Karl Kiefer

Wilf had an amazing ability to make everyone feel special and heard.
I remember our conversations about life, family and dreams - he always listened with such genuine interest offering wisdom from his perspective of a life well lived. 
He was  an upbeat and positive Father figure admired for his boundless energy, strength of character and faith in God.
May Heaven's Peace surround all who had the opportunity to Love or be Loved by Wilf

Wilf became my godfather while he was only 17.  Having helped my father on the farm, he became my lifelong friend now for 77 years.  My wife Sherry and I spent many happy hours visiting first his wife Loretta and later,  wife Arlene.  It was especially during this time that days would be spent at the cottage and at his home in Preston during Arlene's illness, and I especially remember the many stories about Formosa and laughter shared.  After Arlene's passing, Wilf befriended a lovely lady, Shirley who  also lives at Riverbend.  His love of life and his family spoke volumes.  He will forever be in our hearts.  God Bless, Fran & Sherry Weiss

Our sincerest condolences to you. 
Wilf will be deeply missed by the Brenner family. 
He was truly a special part of our summers and lives growing up.  Our thoughts are with you all during this difficult time. 
Terena (Rob, Carson and Taryn)

Dear Rettinger Family & Friends:

Our hearts go out to all of you, as we share your sorrow in Wilf's passing.
A remarkable man, who lived a bountiful life, with his family being the proudest of his lifetime accomplishments.
Take comfort in knowing that the warm memories that you can share of Wilf will carry you through the difficult times ahead.
We have so many fond and warm memories of a wonderful cottage neighbour for over fifty years.
Our sincere condolences and prayers are being offered for all of you.

The Brenner Family: Susan & Tony, Terena & Rob, Darren & Melissa, Carson and Taryn

OBITUARY

Wilfred J. Rettinger

2 March, 1931 – 6 November, 2025

Barthel Funeral Home

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services