Michael Ray Kretman

Michael, formerly of Louisville, KY and Owensboro KY passed away peacefully on September 9, 2022, in Fort Lauderdale, FL. Michael was an R.N. retired from Broward Health. Michael had a passion for nursing. Prior to relocating to Fort Lauderdale, he had worked at Jewish Hospital, the former General Hospital and University of Louisville Hospital, all of Louisville. He particularly loved working at a teaching hospital and training new medical professionals. While at U of L he served as the Nursing Director of MICU, SICU and ICU. He then joined the Hospice of Louisville in the newly developed HIV/AIDS unit. Michael had the ability to comfort his patients and their families during the start of this pandemic. Many of his patients’ families stayed in touch with him up and until his passing. He made a difference.

Michael loved to travel, however, hated flying. He traveled the World. His favorite places were Cuba, Australia, France and Italy. On a flight to Australia, he got so upset with Deney and Barry because they were able to sleep on the flight.

Michael in his life had met Presidents and attended three Presidential Inaugurations. He also met Governors, Surgeon Generals, Senators and Musical Celebrities. He was thrilled to have lunch with singer/songwriter Bono, where they discussed HIV/AIDS issues.

Michael was also a tireless Activist in the areas of HIV/AIDS, and Human Rights. He traveled the Commonwealth of Kentucky with Belinda Mason, Ron Jerrell and Theresa Gordon speaking to communities about HIV. The four of them started K.I.P.W.A.C, Kentucky Indiana People With Aids Coalition. He was a U.S. Delegate to the 1993 International AIDS Conference in Berlin and 1996 International AIDS Conference in Vancouver.

Michael was honored to receive the J. C. Penney Golden Rule Award and many other awards, honors. He was honored to carry the Olympic Torch in the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympic Torch Relay.

Michael is survived by Deney Priddy Kretman, with whom he shared much of his life with. His father, Winthrop “Babe” Kretman, of Port Orange, FL.; His brother, Winthrop “Windy” and Diana Kretman, Owensboro, KY; Niece, Ashley N. and Dee Wilhem, Louisville, KY; Niece, Ashley E. and Dr. Brian Tinius, Owensboro, KY.; His friends, Barry and Robbi Lynn Shaffer; His dog, Cammie; and many, many friends in Louisville and Fort Lauderdale.

Michael was predeceased by his mother, Betty S. Kretman; his maternal grandparents, Izola (whom he adored) and Charles Howard; his paternal grandparents; his aunt Doris Fulkerson.

The interment of Michael’s cremains will placed in Cave Hill Cemetery,  Louisville, KY,  on October 15, 2022 at 2:00 PM . Please use Grinstead Drive entrance. Friends are welcome.

In lieu of flowers please donate in Michael’s name to your favorite charity.

PLEASE DO NOT SEND FLOWERS TO THE FUNERAL HOME AS THERE ARE NO SERVICES AT OUR FACILITY. 

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