Joseph D. Rettger, Jr.

Of Churchill, age 92, died peacefully on Monday, March 23, 2026.

Joe was born on 3/4/34, a son of the late Joseph D., Sr. and Margaret (Baumgarten) Rettger.

He is survived by his brothers, Richard “Dick” (Anna Marie) Rettger of Plum and Jack (Angela) Rettger of Forest Hills.

He was preceded in death by his sisters, Mary “Kate” (late Ron) McClelland and {Patricia (surviving spouse, Jim) Cella .

Joe is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews, as well as great-nieces and great-nephews.

Joe was a graduate of Wilkinsburg High School and spent over 50 years as a auto mechanic with JP Automotive Repair on Sixth St. in North Braddock. In his retirement, he returned to work as a school bus driver for First Student. He was proud to have received awards from Pennsylvania that recognized his safe driving and perfect attendance. In his spare time, Joe was an avid collector. He collected antique cars, matchbox cars, Nascar paraphernalia, Lionel trains and their accessories, coins and many other treasures. Joe carefully cataloged and marked each and every item in his vast assortment.

Friends are welcome on Thursday from 3-7pm at Patrick T. Lanigan Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., Turtle Creek / Monroeville Chapel, 1111 Monroeville Ave., Turtle Creek, 412-823-9350.
Mass of Christian Burial will be in St. Joseph the Worker Church (formerly St. Maurice) 2001 Ardmore Blvd. Forest Hills on Friday at 10 a.m.

Joe will be laid to rest privately in St. Ann Cemetery in Castle Shannon.

Memorial donations may be made to the charity of one’s choice.