April 23, 1947 – May 24, 2021
Paul Retsch, 74 of Parma, Ohio passed away early Monday morning, May 24, 2021. Paul was born in Waldsassen, Germany on April 23, 1947. He was the son of the late Richard Zbigniew Retsch and Olga Valeria Retsch of Parma Heights, OH.
Paul was a 1965 graduate of Valley Forge High School in Parma Heights, OH. He graduated in 1969 from Bowling Green State University with his then wife and mother of his two children, Jennifer Ryder. He continued to be friends with Jen throughout his life; however, she also passed away on May 5, 2021.
Paul was employed by various companies including the Center for Disease Control (CDC), VWR Scientific, MCI and the City of San Diego, at the time he eventually retired. He was an avid speaker, conversationalist and writer, who also taught courses at San Diego State University. He enjoyed travelling and taking cruises with his love and wife Tish. He loved his family, friends and animals, especially his rescue Shih-Tzu, Buddy. He was so proud of his daughter Jocelyn, son Michael and his granddaughter Hanna.
Paul is survived by his loving wife Tish Hill-Retsch, Brother George Retsch-Bogart and wife Carol of Chapel Hill, NC, his Sister Anna Singleton and husband Don of Williamstown, MA, Daughter Jocelyn Odijk and husband Chris of Parma, OH, his Son Michael Ryder of San Diego, CA and Granddaughter Hanna Ryder of Omaha, NE.
Paul was most proud his granddaughter Hanna, niece Grace Singleton, nephews Alex Retsch-Bogart and Sam Bogart, Sam’s wife Kristy and their daughter, the newest member of the Bogart/Retsch family, great-niece Tallulah Rose Bogart. He loved his dog Buddy who lives in Texas with Tish’s friend Kerri along with many loyal friends he made across the country. Tony Arthur was his friend since high school and college who lives in Texas with his wife Carol. After many years of friendship through regular phone calls, once Paul moved to Texas, he and Tony spent daily workout sessions together.
Paul will be remembered for his kind heart, loving soul, sharp intellect and wonderful story telling abilities. He had words for setting and everyone and remembered everything until dementia took that away at the very end of his life. His celebration of life service is pending at this writing.
Memorials in Paul’s name can be made to either:
Arden Courts of Parma Heartland Hospice
Attn: Pam or Sean Attn: Ricchi or Buck
9205 W Sprague Rd 4807 Rockside Rd Unit 110
Cleveland OH 44133 Independence OH 44131
Phone (440) 886-5858 Phone (216) 520-0765
