In 1977, my first day at Coshocton High School (where we had just moved the week before), Mr. Rettos announced in his World History class "now I don' t expect anyone to walk out of here having decided to become a historian. . . "

Well I became one anyway.   I often think back to my old teachers.  While Coshocton High School had its limitations, we had some good history classes, and I did leave with a good knowledge of French (which ended up my BA).   I later did  history for graduate school.  

Mr. Rettos' enthusiasm for history complemented my own.   I often think of his example when teaching my own classes.  

My condolences to the Rettos family.  I was good childhood friends with John’s son, Soc.  In the summer of 1974, my family was planning on leaving the Coshocton area.  John and Reba invited me to vacation with them and their 3 children to Myrtle Beach, SC.  John treated me as one of his own and I had a wonderful time; I have lifelong memories of that trip and my friendship with the Rettos family.  Rest In Peace John, you’re a good man.

Dear Reba, Chris, and Andi,

It was such an honor to have known and worked with John. He was truly a man of integrity. His delightful sense of humor was always such a joy! He touched many lives, and was such a blessing to our community. He will be sadly missed!

Your friends,
Marty Rodabaugh
Don McKay

Reba and family, i am sorry for your loss John  taught me in high school many years ago. I reconnected with you when my brother and sister-in-law became neighbors with you. ( Gene and Sylvia Lillibridge ) before their passing .He was a wonderful man, sorry again for your loss.

I am so sad to hear of Mr. Rettos' passing tonight. He was one of my favorite teachers and people, and for some reason he was stuck in my head at the age where he taught me World History.  I later led my Government class to sit on his classroom floor when I was a Senior. I can see it like it was yesterday. 

I know he lived a long life, but the kindest and inspiring of all people never seem to live long  enough. My heart goes out to his family and all who loved him. He will live on in history through all he taught and lives he touched. Until we meet again...

I am sincerely sorry for your loss.   Have many fond memories over the years. God watch over  your  family at this very sad time.
Judy Stevens Reed
Class of 1962

My condolences to Reba and the John Rettos family.  I will miss my conversations with John , especially at church , Trinity Episcopal Church.  He will be missed and always remembered !

God Bless, 

Jim and Nancy Shivers

Dear Reba and Family, 
We are so sorry to read of John's passing.  We remember your family fondly and pray that God will comfort you in the days ahead.

Love, Evelyn Johnson and Gaye Lynn Johnson Morgan

John was a wonderful neighbor, mentor, colleague and friend. He left us with years of great memories that we will treasure forever. We offer our sincere condolences and prayers to Reba and the family. Paul, Donna, Ron, Sheri and Mark Miller

John and Reba were a vital part of elections in our office. Very honest, caring and such a joy to be around. We have missed you both. Our hearts go out to the family at this time. And every time we see hot air balloons, we think of you!

Rest in peace John Rettos, you have led a full life for your family and  for your past students in your teaching career. It was a pleasure to get to know you at the end of your career and life. Our condolences from our family go out to your family at this time. The Peter Madsen Family.

John was instrumental in my nursing school experience - helping me get funding for things, and encouraging me all the way. 
Condolences to his family and friends.

Sincere sympathy and prayers to the family. Always stood out as a top educator in our lives and will always be remembered.


Mr. Rettos was a  teacher and a quiet man with a quick wit and dry humor. I remember he always had a smile for all he would greet. May you RIP Mr. Rettos much sympathy and love to a family fortunate enough to have this wonderful man in their lives. 

I delivered Mr. Rettos' newspaper for 7 years. He was always very nice to me, although teasing me at times 😄. Years later my husband and I moved back to my childhood neighborhood. My two boys were in Boy Scouts and he would always support them by buying popcorn from them, and of course tease them too! May your memories give you comfort. Condolences.

So sorry to hear of John's passing.  My sincere condolences to Reba and the family.  Always remember John as a very methodical person with a wry since of humor.  Always had a little smile.  He was a person you could trust and depend on.  He will be missed by many.  R.I.P. John  

I remember Mr. Rettos as a very kind man and teacher at  CHS.    I graduated in 1966.   My sympathy to the family.    RIP John!

OBITUARY

John Rettos

1 December, 1930 – 3 June, 2021

Given-Dawson-Paisley Funeral Home

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