Cecil Ray Kretzer, 70, of Centralia passed away Saturday, August 28, 2021. Cecil worked for Nascote in bonding and painting in Nashville. He was a friend to everyone and looked for opportunities such as helping others by cutting wood to keep their homes cozy and warm through the winter. Cecil enjoyed his time spent outdoors while mushroom hunting, working to keep his yard in shape, and tending his beautiful vegetable garden. He instilled the value of working hard and showing support to those in need with everyone who knew him. He was a kind, fun, and loving “PaPa” to his grandchildren and spending time with them always brought a smile to his face. Cecil was a man of integrity and generosity who will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
A celebration of life service will be held at 12:00 p.m. Thursday, September 2, 2021, at the Day Macz Funeral Home in Sandoval with Pastor Steve Upchurch officiating. Interment will follow at Marshall Creek Baptist Church Cemetery in Odin where military rites will be accorded by the Centralia VFW Post 2055 and the American Legion Post 446. Friends are welcome to a visitation time from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home on Thursday, where those in attendance will be asked to where a mask. Memorials may be made in Cecil’s honor to DAV (Disabled American Veterans). Online condolences and memories of Cecil may be shared with the family by visiting www.maczfuneralhomes.com and/or on the funeral home’s Facebook page. Day Macz Funeral Home in Sandoval is privileged to be assisting the family of Cecil Kretzer with arrangements.
He married the love of his life, Marsha Graham on August 20, 1978, in Centralia and she survives him in Centralia. Along with his beloved wife of 43 years Marsha Kretzer, Cecil is survived by his devoted children Cecil Brown of Centralia, Martin Kretzer of Centralia, and Michele Kretzer of Sandoval; cherished grandchildren Valarie Brake (Griffin), Veronica Kretzer ( fiancé Kobe Morrison), Alex Morales, Nadia Morales, Gracie Morales, Khoel Clanton, and Skylar Sanders (finance Emaly Jackson); and siblings Lester (Donna) Kretzer of Odin, Charlie (Dawna) Kretzer of Missouri, Harvey (Tammy) Charlton of Tennessee, and Brenda Clawges of Lakeland, Florida.
He was born on November 30, 1950, the son of Martin Preston and Eileen (Heinzmann) Kretzer in Odin. Cecil was preceded in death by his parents Martin and Eileen Kretzer; and brothers Martin Kretzer, and Melvin “Bubby” Charlton.
