Timothy Allen Retterer

Timothy Allen “Tim” Retterer, known affectionately as Grandpa Tim, passed away on Saturday, March 16, 2024, at the age of 69. Born on January 7, 1955, in Jamestown, Pennsylvania, he was the son of Craig and Rebecca (Hayes) Retterer.

Tim grew up in Beaver Dams, New York, and attended Corning West High School, graduating in 1973. He was a member of the West High basketball team and earned the nickname “Timbo” from his teammates as he would foul out 10 minutes into every game. During high school, Tim worked for Pete Hatch at the Circle H Golf Course, where he quickly developed a lifelong love for the game of golf.

Following graduation, Tim furthered his education at trade school and then went on to work as a welder for Ward LaFrance and Prudential Insurance Co., before opening his own business. He proudly owned and operated Retterer and Sons Janitorial for 46 years and was well known for a meticulous dedication to his craft and service to the community. Tim was a mentor to many and found joy in seeing his friends and family succeed in life and celebrating their achievements.

Tim was strong willed and stubborn at times, but he also had an enormous heart and witty sense of humor. He was generous, loyal, and kind. He will be remembered for all the heart he shared with his family and friends. He truly loved each of them, and those who knew him, knew it.

Tim’s granddaughters were the light of his life, and he cherished their close relationship. There was never a day that went by he didn't brag about how unendingly proud he was of them. As a doting grandpa, he was a fixture at Delaney’s golf tournaments – sometimes as her official caddy – and in the front row of Harper’s dance recitals. He loved to spend time with them on the golf course, swimming in their pool, and having sleepovers.

Tim is survived by his daughter, Kelly Abel, and her mother, Deborah Retterer; granddaughters, Delaney and Harper Abel; sister, Patricia (Paul) Rose; brother, Stephen (Cindy) Retterer; and several nieces and nephews. He was a devoted father, grandfather, and brother, and his family was the cornerstone of his life.

Tim was preceded in death by his parents; son, Douglas Retterer; sister, Carol Conklin; nephew, Curtis Schmidt; and dear family friend, Kimberly Trank.

Visitation will be held for family and friends to pay their respects and share memories of Tim on Friday, March 22, from 4-6 p.m. at Carpenter's Funeral Home, 14 E. Pulteney Street, Corning. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, March 23, 2024, at 2 p.m. at Beaver Dams Cemetery, Beaver Dams Road, Beaver Dams, New York.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Tim’s name may be made to the PGA Jr. League Scholarship Fund at www.pgajrleague.com/dontate or to Stage Door Performing Arts Center, 148 Village Square, Painted Post, New York, 14870.

Timothy Allen Retterer will be remembered as a loving father, grandfather, and friend. His stories, wisdom, and the warmth of his company will be deeply missed by all who knew him.