Geraldine “Jeri” Retzlaff, age 94, of Baraboo, formerly of Reedsburg, WI, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Monday, July 28, 2025 in SSM St. Clare Hospital, Baraboo. Jeri was born on August 29, 1930 in Chicago, IL, to Boyd and Jean (Bartz) Eshleman.

She graduated from high school in 1948 in Elkhart, IN; and in 1952 she graduated college from North Central College in Naperville, IL. This is where she met James Retzlaff, and they were married on December 26, 1951. They had three sons, Jeffrey A., Michael E, and Thomas J. Jeri was employed by the Barrington, IL school district in their computer services program, and retired after 20 years in 1988.

Her life was filled with extensive travel, many family reunions, camping, reading, volunteering, and 16 fun-filled winters in Mercedes, TX. She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Reedsburg.

In her later years, Jeri was tenderly cared for by her loving niece, Suzanne Paskey.

She is survived by her sisters-in-law Audrey Retzlaff of Rockford, IL, Jeanette Retzlaff of Cambridge, WI, and Barbara Retzlaff of Lake Mills, WI; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Jim in 2013; sons, Jeffrey in 2012, Michael in 2006 and Thomas in 2019.

Even through her loss, Jeri found happiness and courage through her faith. She remained a joy and blessing to others. Jeri will be remembered for her quick wit, her sense of humor and the love she held for her family.

Special thank you to the staff of Oak Park Place, SSM St. Clare Hospital and Agrace Hospice in Baraboo for their wonderful care.

A memorial service for Jeri will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at the Reedsburg United Methodist Church with Pastor Elizabeth Alexander officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Make a Wish Foundation or the Reedsburg United Methodist Church.