Arthur J. Bretscher

Arthur J. Bretscher, 74, of Springfield, died at 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, September 17, 2006 at his residence. He was born on January 29, 1932 in Springfield, the son of Arthur H. and Charlotte M. Ostermeier Bretscher. He married Elizabeth “Betty” Jean Smith on August 30, 1958 in Springfield. He was a 1959 graduate of the University of Illinois, Champaign with a Bachelors Degree in Business. A U.S. Marine Corp Veteran, he served in the Korean War and served in the U.S. Marine Reserves, Army National Guard and the Army Reserves. A lifelong resident, he was a systems analyst for the State of Illinois, Department of Professional Regulation, retiring in 1998. He was also previously employed by Sangamo Electric Company. He was a member of Blessed Sacrament Church and a life member of both the Marine Corps Association and the National Guard Association of Illinois. Arthur enjoyed putting things together. He built his own home and worked on other woodworking projects. He also enjoyed building model ships. Arthur was a family man who enjoyed taking care of his family and spending time with his grandkids. He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother: Henry “Ted” Bretscher and one sister: Charlotte Graydon. He is survived by his wife: Elizabeth “Betty” Jean Bretscher; two sons: David A. (wife, Michelle) Bretscher of Springfield and Matthew P. (wife, Lisa) Bretscher of Creve Coeur, MO; two daughters: Mary E. Bretscher, M.D. and Anne M. Baker, both of Springfield; seven grandchildren: Erin E. Baker, Christopher D. Bretscher, Kathryn M. Bretscher and Elizabeth A. Bretscher all of Springfield and Joshua E. Bretscher, Morgan E. Bretscher and Lauren E. Bretscher all of Creve Coeur, MO and several nieces and nephews. Family will receive friends from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, September 21, 2006 at Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. Visitation will begin with a Prayer Service at 4:30 p.m. Funeral Ceremonies will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, September 22, 2006 at Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home, with Rev. David Hoefler officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice Care of Illinois & VNA of Central Illinois, 720 North Bond Street, Springfield, IL 62702-9914. The family of Arthur J. Bretscher is being served by Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St. Springfield.