MADISON - Jackson Robert Retzlaff, age 32, beloved son of Thomas and Cheryl Retzlaff, passed away unexpectedly but naturally on Friday, December 20, 2024.

Jack was born in Madison on February 10, 1992, and grew up in Cottage Grove. He was an energetic, loving, big-eyed little boy who worshipped his older brother, Max. He loved to sing although (adorably) carrying a tune wasn't one of his many strengths. From an early age he enjoyed participating in sports. He played baseball at Kennedy Little League and football, soccer, and (his favorite) basketball in youth programs. He graduated from Monona Grove High School in 2010 after playing football, basketball and baseball all four years, as well as being a member of the school choir (good music teachers through the years!). He went on to attend UW-Milwaukee, a time and place he fondly remembered.

Jack was a very personable and likeable guy with a great sense of humor. He stayed well informed and could talk with people on any variety of topics. In many ways he was an old soul as he related to and had friends of all ages-even little kids loved Jack. He was also kind and empathetic, loved animals (especially his rescue dog Zoey), and was always willing to lend a helping hand. He went on various missionary trips, mainly to Guatemala, which thoroughly fed his soul. He loved music in all forms, and the live music was one of the things he really enjoyed about working at the Harmony Bar and Grill (along with great owners, co-workers who became good friends, and its comfortable, neighborly vibe). Jack also enjoyed attending performances at The Overture in Madison (one of the last things he did with his Mom, which she will forever cherish). He was proud of his house and had grown an interest in flower and vegetable gardening. He was working on his cooking skills, always willing to try new things. He continued to enjoy sports of all kinds, whether playing, watching, or in fantasy leagues and through which, at every level, made new and cherished friends. He loved and was loved by many who are now grieving. Hopefully they will remember him fondly from time to time.

We are beyond heartbroken and devastated but will remember Jack as our shooting star- bright and wonderful but very sadly gone too soon.

Jack is survived by his parents, Tom and Cheryl Retzlaff; brother, Max (Sadi Hilliard), and their children Henry “Hank” and Olive; and his beloved dog, Zoey. He is also survived by aunts and uncles, John and Barb Retzlaff, Jim Retzlaff (Cindy Schiek), Janice Weitzel and Art Maerz, Terri and Jim Curtis, and Ron Mielke; as well as cousins Tim, Todd and Michael Retzlaff; Tim Weitzel (Jordyn Ellner), Cari (Jeff) Jacobs; Lindsay (Lucas) Conmey; Jeremy (Katie) Curtis; and Ashley and Bryan Mielke. Besides being the loving uncle of Hank and Olive, he was the "adopted" loving uncle of James, Isla, Eden and Ford Conmey.

A visitation will be held at Gunderson East Funeral and Cremation Care, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Thursday, January 2, 2025.

Memorials may be made to Underdog Pet Rescue of Wisconsin or an animal charity of your choice. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420

Jackson Retzlaff

February 10, 1992 - December 21, 2024

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