Laurie Kretz

LAURIE LEIGH KRETZ, 37, died at 6:20 p.m. May 20, 2006, at Shawnee Manor Nursing Home. She was born March 2, 1969, in Lima, Ohio to Daniel J. and Tana L. Mauck Kretz. Her father survives. Her mother and stepfather, Tana and Paul Nutter, survive in Lima, Ohio. Miss Kretz was a 1987 graduate of Shawnee High School, where she was a member of the National Honor Society. She received her bachelor's degree in communications and psychology in 1992, from Ohio Northern University, where she graduated with distinction. She was born with a cleft lip and palate, which created numerous complications for her. When she was 10 years old, she was diagnosed with diabetes, which created more complications, such as diabetic retinopathy and kidney failure. She had been on dialysis since 2000. She had worked at and been involved in many things over the years, but it was her love of animals that she wanted to be remembered. She raised and loved many pets, including chinchillas, guinea pigs, hamsters and rabbits. She also had a dog, Kelleigh, and a cat, Kibby, that she loved dearly. She died in her mother's arms. Survivors also include a brother, Eric (Julie) Kretz of Bluffton, Ohio; three maternal aunts and uncles, Terri (Al) Ley and Rob (Arlene) Mauck, both of Lima, Ohio, and Ronda (fianc? J.R. Hayhurst) Watkins of Wapakoneta, Ohio; paternal uncle, Tony (Sue) Van Hoose of Dola, Ohio; and several cousins. She was preceded in death by maternal grandparents, Robert L. and Ruth Mauck; paternal grandparents, Daniel C. Kretz and Beatrice Kretz Van Hoose; and an aunt, Nancy Kennedy. There will be no services or visitation. In lieu of flowers, Miss Kretz requested that everyone perform a random act of kindness or adopt and love a pet that needs a home. Condolences may be expressed at www.chamberlainhuckeriede.com. Arrangements are by Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home.