Obituary of Deward David Retherford

Deward David "Dick" Retherford

Deward David "Dick" Retherford,age 92,passed away peacefully at Essentia St. Mary's Hospital with family at his side, September 16, 2018, due to injuries from an accidental fall.

Born July 2, 1926 in Slocomb, AL to John S. and Monnie Retherford and raised in Chipley, FL. Dick was a country boy at heart, and he carried that genuine friendliness with him his entire life.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years Kathleen: mother Monnie; father John S; brothers Eugene, Lee, James, and Maxwell; sister, Sarah.

He is survived by daughter, Patricia (Tony) Zanko of Stillwater, MN; 3 grandchildren, Cara (Josh) Madetzke, Michael (Anna) Zanko, David (Tanya) Zanko; 6 great-grandchildren, Spencer, Harriet, Marcella, Gavin, Graham, and Naomi; brother, Billy Retherford of Marianna, FL; many nieces and nephews.

Dick honorably served in the US Army during WWII, followed by 20 years in the Air Force. While stationed in post-war England, Dick met his bride, Kathleen, and began raising his family. After retiring from the Air Force in 1966, Dick and his family moved to Duluth beginning a 15 year Government Service career at the Duluth Air Force Base as Base Procurement Officer, retiring in 1982, completing 35 years of service to his country.

Upon retirement his favorite job was "Dada" to his 3 grandchildren, including their friends from childhood to the present and extended family. His great-grandchildren were very fond of him and called him by that name.

His pastimes included countless games of cribbage with his family along with Kings in the Corner and Bingo with his special friends at the Portman Community Center, where he participated in many senior activities.

The family wishes to extend heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to all of the caregivers at Essentia St. Mary's Hospital ICU and Palliative Care Units.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE: 3-5 p.m. Saturday, October 6, 2018 at Portman Community Center, 4601 McCulloch St, Duluth.

Memorials preferred to Portman Community Center, Duluth MN. Services entrusted to the Cremation Society of Minnesota.