Obituary for Barbara Ann Brink Retz

Barbara Ann Brink Retz August 25, 1937-March 8, 2006. Barbara Ann Brink Retz passed away in Des Moines, Iowa on March 8, 2006. Barb was born to Marcella Molck Brink and Kenneth Brink in Walnut, Iowa on August 25, 1937. She grew up and lived in and around the Atlantic area most of her life, and graduated from Atlantic High School in 1955. After high school, Barb lived and worked in Omaha until she met John (Jack) Retz. Barb and Jack were wed on February 20, 1957, and made their home in Anita, where they raised a family of four and enjoyed 49 years of marriage. Barb’s greatest joy was sharing life with her friends and family—especially her grandchildren. She was an active member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Anita, where she made many contributions of her time and talents. She also was an avid reader and served on the board of the Anita Public Library for some years. Barb is preceded in eternal life by her mother, Marcella Molck Brink Esbeck, father Kenneth Brink, and step-father Lester Esbeck. She is survived by husband John (Jack) Retz of Anita, three daughters Susan Retz and partner Marcello DeCicco of West Palm Beach, Florida, Pat Przychodzin and husband Phil of Massena, Liz Parker and husband Dan of Elk Horn, son John (Mike) Retz and wife Maureen of Ames, and grandchildren Sean and Allison Retz, Nicholas (Cole) Tucker; step-grandchildren Alex and Aishah Parker, Amy Barth and Veronica McKee. She is also survived by sister Cherie Hensley and family of Lamoni, and brother Gary Brink and family of Parumph Nevada. Barb lived her faith, and will be remembered as always willing to lend a hand, offer a smile and give of herself to brighten someone’s day. She was dearly loved and leaves her testimony in the many lives touched by her generosity and kindness. A funeral Mass will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Anita at 10:30 am Saturday, March 11. Visitation will be held Friday March 10 in St. Mary’s Church basement from 6:30-8:30 p.m.