Keith Paul Bretag, 95, of Ottawa, passed away on December 20th with his loving family surrounding him.
Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. on Saturday, December 28, 2024 at St. Francis Church in Ottawa with Msgr. Mark Merdian, Pastor, officiating. Burial will be at St. Columba Cemetery in Ottawa with Military Rites to follow. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. on Friday, December 27, 2024 at Mueller Funeral Home in Ottawa.
Keith was born in Ottawa on August 1, 1929, to Henry H. And Lucille (Byrne) Bretag. He worked for 38 years at Nicor Gas Company, retiring as a Utility Inspector. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and American Legion. Keith was a die-hard Cubs fan, coached several local baseball teams, and was the starting half-back at Ottawa High School. He lived his life with dedication to GOD, FAMILY AND COUNTRY.
Keith married Florence Wisniewski on May 5, 1951. Keith and Florence were married for 73 1/2 years. Along with his wife Florence, he is survived by four children, Randy Bretag (Sue) of Ottawa, Debbie Bretag of Evanston, IL, Tom Bretag (Joan) of Ottawa, and Cindy (Steve) Cox of Acworth, Georgia. He was blessed with eight grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren. one great step-grandchild, and one great-great grandson. He is also survived by his sister, Peggy Bellettini of Morris.
Those that precede Keith in his passing include his parents, Henry and Lucille Bretag; four brothers, Paul, James, Kaye (twin), and Jerry Bretag; sisters, Doris Barron and Betty Pandolfi.
Pallbearers will be Bart Bretag, Mitchell Cox, Steve Cox, Carl Theissen, Dan Jankowski, and Mick Resser. Honorary pallbearers will be Logan Cheatham, Jackson Mitchell, Barrett Bretag, Henry Heintz, and Tyler Heintz.
Donations in the name of Keith Bretag can be made to Paralyzed Veterans, St. Jude Research Hospital, or the family.
You may sign the online guestbook and share remembrances at www.MuellerFH.com. Mueller Funeral Home and Crematory 800 First Avenue, Ottawa, IL 61350 815-434-4433