Walter Pretkelis

Walter “Walt” A. Pretkelis, 80, of Elk Grove Village; husband for 54 years to Ann (nee Wozniak) who preceded him in death, and father of Walter Jr. "Wally" (Barbara) and Geoffrey (Jane); grandfather of Neil, Ren, Alexa, Ben and Mallory; son of Emilija (nee Schmidt) and (late) Augustus Pretkelis, and brother of Algrid “Al” Pretkelis. Brother-in-law to Irene Wozniak and Harriet Scott and uncle of Fred (Arlene) Scott, Liz Scott, Jim (Lesley) Pretkelis, Margaret (Brett) Rush and Elizabeth Pretkelis-Heaton.

Walt immigrated from Lithuania at the age of 6. He met his wife, Ann in high school. Walt was drafted, and married Ann just prior to serving a three-year tour of duty in the Vietnam War. After his honorable discharge, they moved to Elk Grove Village to raise their family. Walt retired from United Airlines after working over 30 years as a Ramp Serviceman and Supervisor. He then worked several years at O’hare as a TSA Supervisor. Walt was an avid reader; James Patterson was his favorite author. At different times in his life, he enjoyed walking Woodfield mall with his wife, racquetball, weightlifting, watching Cubs games, working on his yard, and spending time in Wisconsin. He cherished his grandchildren. He was blessed with many friends who will miss him dearly. Cremation will be private at the Countryside Crematory, Bartlett, Il.