| |
Harold F. Reetz
March 10, 1948 - August 15, 2022
The family of Dr. Harold Reetz, Jr., 74, of Monticello, is saddened to announce his passing on Monday, August 15th.
Harold was born in Watseka, Ill., on March 10, 1948, and grew up on his family farm in Milford. He earned his first degree in 1970, a B.S. in Ag Science/Agronomy, from the University of Illinois, where he was a proud member of the Nabor House fraternity. He then pursued graduate studies at Purdue University, earning his master’s degree in Crop Physiology and Ecology in 1972, then ultimately earned a Ph. D in Crop Physiology and Ecology in 1976.
Harold met Chris Kaiser at the U of I, which was the starting point for the family that was his pride and joy. Harold and Chris married August 25, 1973, and began their life together in West Lafayette, Ind., while he finished his doctorate work. In 1982 they moved to Monticello, Ill., which became home base for his legendary career and the community where they finished raising their three kids.
His career sent him on travels around the world, and no matter how far from home he always crossed paths with people he knew. His career began at Purdue, where he was associate professor in the agronomy department. He then spent 28 years with the International Plant Nutrition Institute (formerly Potash and Phosphate Institute) where he served as Midwest Director, then became President of the Foundation for Agronomic Research and Director of External Support until his retirement in 2010. Even in retirement, he continued to advise on agronomic practices with his consulting company, Reetz Agronomics LLC. Read full obituary.
Harold was instrumental in leading and guiding the creation of the Illinois Agricultural Education Line Item, was the first chair of the Illinois Committee for Agricultural Education (ICAE) from 1987 to 1989, and was involved with both ICAE, ILCAE and related advisory boards throughout his career. He attended the first organizational meeting on December 13, 1984, where 79 leaders of agriculture and education met to discuss the future of Illinois Agricultural Education.
Services will be scheduled at a later date to celebrate Harold and the lives he touched and the minds he influenced.
Cards can be sent to:
Christine Reetz
Family of Harold Reetz
1497 N. 1050 E. Road
Monticello, IL 61856
(sent to all contacts)
--
Dean Dittmar
Facilitating Coordination in Ag Education (FCAE)
Phone: 217-893-0091 Cell: 618-604-1622
Email: ddittmar@ILAgEd.org
Address: 3358 Big Pine Trail , Champaign, IL 61822
|
|