RONALD LEE KRETZER

"I am the resurrection, and the life; he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die.  Believest thou this?" (John 11: 25-26)

On February 2, 2018, Ronald Lee Kretzer, 71, of Bluefield, VA, entered into rest after a lengthy illness. He was born on August 1, 1946 in Martinsburg, WV. Ron had many and varied interests during his lifetime, and followed several different career paths.  He was an accomplished professional musician and business owner, and pursued a passion for antiques.  Ron served in the U.S. Air Force during the Viet Nam ere, and was a disabled veteran.

Ron was outgoing, articulate and upbeat, with a quick wit that drew people to him. He suffered a great deal in his final years, yet always had something positive or funny to say to the medical personnel and caregivers who gave him such excellent attention and treatment.  The family would like to extend special thanks to the staff of the Department of Veterans Affairs Home Based Primary Care program, to the home health professionals at Interim Health Care and Pro Careers, Inc., and to Larry Akers in particular, all of whom make it possible for Ron to remain at home until his final hospitalization.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents: Harry and Evelyn Kretzer; sister: Lou Fyke; brothers: Max and Buddy Kretzer; and son: Ronald L. Kretzer, II. Surviving him are his loving wife of 37 years, Brenda, and son, Chase, both of the home; sister: Helen Decker of Martinsburg, WV; mother-in-law: Ruth Jackson; brother-in-law: Randy Jackson and wife, Kerri, all of Bluefield, VA; sister-in-law: Nancy Jackson of Morehead City, NC; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at the Church of God, 104 Highland Avenue, Bluefield, VA, on Tuesday, February 6, 2018 at 7:00 P.M. with Rev Tony Ellis officiating. Military rites will be conducted by the VFW Post #9696 and the Pocahontas American Legion #14.  There will be a receiving line following the service in the church vestibule for friends to express sympathies and condolences to the family.  The family has asked that donations be made to the Church of God Family Life Center in lieu of flowers.