Asleep in Jesus Wednesday, July 1, 2026.
Beloved son of the late Rev. Herbert and Dorothy Kretzmann (nee Meier); loving brothers and sisters; the late Rev. James (surviving Jeanne) Kretzmann, John Kretzmann, Karen (Randal) Tritch, Jeremy Kretzmann, Kathryn (Lance) Prager and dear uncle of Erica Kretzmann, Eliza (Jeremy) Kruger, Martin (Devonna) Kretzmann, Julia (Bill) Hoffman, Heather Tritch, Nathan (Chrissy) Tritch, Madelyn Prager and Nora Prager. Great uncle of Collin Kretzmann, Greyson Kretzmann, Kayla Hoffman, Hannah (Johnny) Furr, Logan Hoffman, Joshua Bailey, Danna Bailey, & Travis Bailey. Also dearest great-great-uncle, cousin and friend to many.
Joel was a loving brother and uncle to his family. As a Baptized child of God to the Christian Faith, he periodically attended church services and partook in the Sacrament of Holy Communion whenever he had the opportunity. Then later, Joel gladly welcomed pastor visits and rides to church from the nursing home. He was raised in the Philippines by his Lutheran Missionary parents whom he shared the honor with his 5 siblings. Over a period of time Joel earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. His hobbies were reading, collecting, selling books, garage sales, watching movies and he loved his pets. He often rode his bike to the library and loved to visit and dine with family, especially with nieces and nephews. His intellectual conversations and humor was unique and he will be missed by all. He is now resting in the Saving Grace of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Donations are welcomed in Joel’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association or the charity of your choice.
Memorial service is 11:00am at Hope Lutheran Church 2308 Gravois Rd, High Ridge, Mo. 63049 on July 28th, 2026.
Interment at Our Redeemer Cemetery, 8300 McKenzie Rd, St. Louis, MO 63123 immediately following the Memorial Service at Hope.