Walter John Pretko

The family of Walter John Pretko, of Lincoln Park, is saddened to announce his passing on Tuesday, June 13, 2023 at the age of 99 years.

Beloved husband of the late Anna Pretko. Loving father of Theresa (Jim) Grant, Thomas (Gale) Pretko, Barbara (Stanley) Podkul, and Joe (Renate) Pretko. Proud grandfather of Gregory (Anna), Matthew (Jessica), Maryann (Brent), Michael (Valerie), Jennifer (Jason), Jamie (Robert), the late Joey, Kristin (Chris), and Michelle (Ryan). Dear great-grandfather of Ty, Melanie, Brooklynn, Natalie, Alexa, Aidan, Ava, Christian, Lucas, Cameron, Courtney, Jackson, Zoey, Avery, and Braelyn.

Walter was born on April 19, 1924 to the late Alexander and Albina Pretko. He was the third of 11 children. Walter is preceded in death by his 5 brothers and 5 sisters. Growing up in Swoyersville, Pennsylvania was the highlight of his childhood. As a child, Walter enjoyed exploring up in the mountains and swimming in the nearby river.

In 1943, when Walter was 18 years old, he enlisted in the Army Air Corp. Walter courageously served our country during World War II. He then re-enlisted in the Army and served until 1947. Walter's deep love for his country was valiantly displayed until his passing. He was a devoted member of the American Legion and Polish Legion of American Veterans.

Anna was the love of Walter's life. While he was serving in the military, Anna's family moved to Swoyersville near the Pretko family home. Well, as this romantic story goes, Walter's sister decided to send him a picture of the beautiful girl who moved into town. As soon as Walter saw the picture, he knew he would marry her. Before Walter could make that happen, though, Anna's family relocated to Michigan. Once in Michigan, Anna discovered a job opening at the local Scott's Papermill and sent word to Walter. Without hesitation and knowing he'd found his love; he hopped on a train to Michigan. Walter and Anna were married for 65 wonderful years.

Walter enjoyed many things in life. One of his favorite activities to do was bowling. You could often find him at Roosevelt Lanes bowling with his family and friends. Smoothly gliding a bowling ball down the lane to watch the pins fall was Walter's passion well into his 90's. Sports was something Walter found pleasure in as well. He loved all Detroit teams, but especially Tiger's Baseball. When he was younger, the announcer Ernie Harwell could be heard regularly on Walter's radio. Going to games and watching games on TV with an ice-cold beer was a highlight of his day. When Walter missed a game, he would always ask his children, "Did the Tiger's win today?" Walter also loved to go fishing. You could find him locally in Flat Rock or Monroe casting out a line. He enjoyed fishing in Houghton Lake up north, too. When he wasn't enjoying sports, he loved listening to Polka music. The polka beat would draw him in and before long he'd be up to dance.

Walter will be sincerely missed by his family.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 22, 2023 1:00 – 8:00 PM at Solosy Funeral Home.

Instate will be on Friday, June 23, 2023 9:30 AM until time of Funeral Mass 10:00 AM at Christ the Good Shephard Catholic Church.

Military Honors & Interment will follow at Our Lady of Hope Cemetery.