Brian David Retka

Brian David Retka, age 75, passed away on Sunday, April 12, 2026, with family by his side.

Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Brian later moved to Tennessee and graduated from Ardmore High School. He attended Martin College, the University of Alabama in Huntsville, and Athens State College. Early in his career, he worked in his family’s restaurant, for the FBI, and in shipping before becoming a manager with Norton Company/Saint Gobain, where he built a long and dedicated career.

After retiring, Brian found joy in arts and crafts, a passion he carried throughout his retirement. He was a proud member of the Catholic Foresters and NEACA. Brian was known for his love of fishing, cooking on his grill and smoker, creating engraved woodworking and drink can airplanes, and faithfully cheering on Alabama athletics—simple joys that brought him peace and purpose.

Brian was preceded in death by his father, Thomas James Retka, and his mother, Ruth Lillian Borchardt Retka.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Turner Reed Retka; his daughter Ginger Retka (Kevin) Dunn and their children Walker (Taylor), Brody, and Avery; his stepson James (Carmen) Reed and their children Allison, Savannah, and Kristen; and his “adopted” son John (Alicia) Barnett and their children Everett and Ruby. Also surviving Brian are his sisters Charlene Retka Crowe and Tammy Retka Hampton, along with three nieces and one nephew.

Visitation will be held at Spry Funeral Home in Huntsville, Alabama, on Sunday, April 19, 2026, from 2:00–4:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association Alabama Chapter in memory of Brian Retka. www.alz.org/AL  or Alzheimer’s Association at 320 Nevada St, Suite 201, Newton, MA 02460.

 The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the team at Aveanna Hospice and Healthcare Services for the exceptional compassion, dignity, and care they provided to Brian. Their support brought comfort and peace during his final days, and the family will always be grateful.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Brian David Retka, please visit our floral store.