Ludwig Vretenar

Passed away peacefully at home with his family at his side, December 18, 2017.

He was born to John Sr. and Emilia Vretenar in Poruba, Slovakia (Czechoslovakia) on December 12, 1930. He immigrated with his parents and brothers to the United States in 1937. The family lived on Packard Avenue in the Town of Lake now known as the City of St. Francis. He attended Thompson School and graduated from Cudahy High School. Ludo proudly served overseas in the Korean War as a US Marine. He was a union craftsman bricklayer and stone mason for 42 years; carrying on the occupation of his father and brother Milo. He married Shirley Mahony, the love of his life, nearly 63 years ago. Together, they built a home and “funny” farm in the Town of Raymond. The many animals they raised brought him enjoyment, however, none as much as the many teams of horses he raised and trained. Building and restoring the various carriages he used with the horses was his pride and joy. Recent years also brought joy when he drove his 1930 (birth year) Model A car. Ludo was proud of his heritage and his membership in the Wisconsin Slovak Historical Society. He was a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church serving in the past as an usher and council member. Ludo left each of his children a legacy when he labored building their basements, masonry exteriors and fireplaces for their homes.

Ludo is survived by his wife, Shirley (nee: Mahony), daughter, Lee Marie Toll, sons John (Dawn) and Mike, grandchildren Stephanie (Patrick) Richardson, Rob (Jocelyn) Toll, Jaime Vretenar, Jessica (Fiance` Sean Gunter) Vretenar, Janko Vretenar, Sarah Vretenar, Emily Vretenar, great-granddaughter, Molly Richardson, sister, Emily (Rev. James) Koch. Also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents John Sr. & Emilia Vretenar, brothers and sister-in-laws John (Violet) Vretenar and Milo (Elizabeth) Vretenar.

Visitation will take place on Saturday, December 23rd, 2017 at BETHLEHEM EV. LUTHERAN CHURCH, W124 S9995 North Cape Rd, Muskego, WI (Hwy 45, ½ mile South of Hwy 36) from 9AM until the time of service at 11AM. The Rev. Dean Willich officiating. Burial to follow in the church cemetery.

If so desired, memorials to the Wisconsin Slovak Historical Society or to Bethlehem Lutheran Church appreciated.