William Francis Kretz

William Francis Kretz, 92, was born December 17, 1931, in Chicago, IL to Albert and Caroline (nee Randa) Kretz. He died Monday, April 22, 2024, at Park Place of Elmhurst.

Mr. Kretz, a Korean War Army Veteran, dedicated his life to education, serving as a teacher and administrator in the Chicago Public Schools system before retiring. During his retirement from education, he started a second career as a bank teller and teller manager.

In his spare time, as a young man, Bill enjoyed playing sports. He was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus, Fr. Ryan Council #5025 and was a member of American Legion Post #541. Bill took meticulous care of his yard and will be remembered by his nieces and nephews (and probably his students as well) as a strict disciplinarian with a heart of gold, guiding them with wisdom and care. His poetry is legendary and his fudge would be a blue-ribbon award winner in any fudge competition.

Bill, who spent time in the Seminary, later met his wife, Joan, after she dedicated her life to the convent for over 16 years. She affectionately knows him as "Mr. Wonderful" for his unwavering love and dedication.

William is survived by his wife of 49 years, Joan Kretz, Albert (Late Alice) Kretz (Brother), Mary (Late Jerry) Girard (Sister), Caroline (Late Jack) Whalen (Sister).

He is preceded in death by Albert Kretz (Father), Caroline Randa (Mother), Late Alice Kretz (Sister-in-law), Late John "Jack" Whalen (Brother-in-law), Mary Ann Mokos (Sister-in-law).

Visitation will be from 9:00 am until time of prayers at 10:15 am, Saturday, April 27, 2024, at the Glueckert Funeral Home, Ltd., 1520 N. Arlington Heights Rd., Arlington Heights, IL 60004 proceeding to Our Lady of the Wayside Catholic Church, 440 South Mitchell Avenue, Arlington Heights, IL for Mass at 11:00 am. For those unable to attend the Mass, a live stream can be viewed by clicking the link in “Events” below. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Misericordia Heart of Mercy (http://www.misericordia.com/).

Funeral Information and condolences can be given at www.GlueckertFuneralHome.com or (847) 253-0168.