Nicholas B. Retz

Nicholas B. “Nick” Retz, 71, of Tipton, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 26, 2024. He was born on April 16, 1953, to his parents, Nicholas R. Retz and Mary (Cox) Anderson. On August 12, 1972, Nick married Constance Marie (Warman) Retz, and the two shared over 52 years of marriage.  

Nick graduated from Coloma High School in Michigan, class of 1971. Early in life, he dedicated himself to being a husband and father. Nick was incredibly dependable, committed, and always worked very hard to provide. His love for his family was very evident through his actions. Nick was overall kind of a quiet guy yet, could speak up if needed. Some may have thought Nick was gruff at times because of his “matter of fact” approach to life. In reality, he just preferred to keep things as simple as possible. If you truly knew him, you knew of his incredibly kind and loving heart. He had a great sense of humor and often enjoyed embarrassing his kids. Nick absolutely enjoyed being a grandpa and beamed with pride for all of his grandchildren. He always enjoyed going to his grandchildren’s sporting events and activities.  It brought him so much joy watching them succeed in sporting and academics.  He was truly proud of each of them in their paths each has chosen in life.  

In Nick’s spare time you may have found him hunting, fishing, arrowhead hunting, or watching Nascar and football. He also enjoyed going to yard sales and flea markets with his wife. He had a green thumb and could grow anything in his garden to its fullest potential. Nick was a member of the Historical Society of Tipton and had a deep appreciation for history overall. Nick was a unique man; he marched to the beat of his own drum and will forever be respected for it. He will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him! 

Those left to carry on Nick’s legacy of love are his wife, Connie Retz; children, Valerie (Brad) Parton, Ryan (Jeniffer) Retz, Anthony “Tony” (Cara) Retz; grandchildren, Abby Retz, Ian Retz, Erich Retz, Brandy Gamblin; brother, Bennie Retz; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.  

Nick was preceded in death by his parents, Nick Retz, Mary Anderson; and stepfather, Carsie Anderson.  

A memorial service celebrating Nick’s life will be held on Thursday, October 3, 2024, at 6:00 PM at Taylor & Cowan Funeral Home, located at 314 N. Main St. In Tipton with Pastor Phill Collier officiating. A visitation for family and friends will take place prior to the service from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the funeral home.   

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Nick’s honor may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home during visitation. Taylor & Cowan Funeral Home is honored to serve the Retz family in their time of need. Please feel free to leave an online condolence or share a special memory of Nick with his family on his tribute wall.  

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