Reverend John J. Richetta, 97, of Kenosha, WI, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at Brookside Care Center.
Born on March 8, 1929, in Milwaukee, WI, he was the beloved son of the late Domenic and Maria (Ciochetto) Richetta. He was Baptized and Confirmed in Immaculate Conception Church in Milwaukee, WI. He received his First Holy Communion in the Church of St. Andrew Pavone, Italy.
Father attended St. Francis Minor and Major Seminary and was ordained a priest on May 14, 1955, by Albert Cardinal Meyer.
From 1955 until 1961 Father Richetta was an associate at St. Joseph’s in Racine, WI. During his assignment there he took care of the Spanish Mission on Durand Road and taught Church History at St. Catherine’s High School. From 1961 until 1966 he was an associate at Old St. Mary’s in Milwaukee.
Father worked with the Puerto Rican Community Cuban Refugees and Latin American Students. Father Richetta was appointed administrator of Our Lady of Mount Carmel parish on February 2, 1966, and served until his retirement.
He shared his talents with the community through his work with the YMI youth program at Marytown and through his teaching of Italian at Gateway Technical College.
He always enjoyed the opportunity to travel, and he learned to respect the ways of different people. He was a true linguist, and he appreciated the music and foods and customs of others as a learning experience.
Father Richetta will be remembered fondly for his remarkable intellect, vast knowledge of foreign customs and cultures, and ability to speak many languages. He was a true walking encyclopedia and the ultimate Trivial Pursuit partner.
He is survived by many special friends who became like family over the years.
A visitation will be held on Monday, August 24, 2026, at Proko Funeral Home from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. beginning with a Rosary Service at 3:30 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Mt. Carmel Catholic Church on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Entombment in All Saints Mausoleum will follow. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church would be appreciated.