Arthur William Kretzschmar, Jr., age 72, passed away on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, in Lutherville Timonium, Maryland. Born in Ithaca, New York, he was the son of the late Arthur William Kretzschmar, Sr. and Constance (Ervin) Kretzschmar.

Arthur was a loving husband, devoted father, and proud grandfather whose family was truly his world. He cherished every opportunity to be surrounded by those he loved, especially the time he spent playing with his grandchildren and creating memories together.

Arthur dedicated more than 30 years of his life to education as a high school teacher, teaching American History and Government. He earned his master's degree from Salisbury University and had a genuine love for teaching and for his students. Prior to his career in education, Arthur also worked as a banker.

Sports played a significant role throughout Arthur's life. He was a soccer referee for more than 30 years and spent over 10 years running the Harford County Recreation Council, where he oversaw sports programs. He enjoyed soccer, tennis, and baseball and was an avid Baltimore Orioles fan. He also loved watching the Baltimore Ravens and was well known for enthusiastically yelling at the television during the games.

Some of Arthur's happiest memories were made with his family, particularly during vacations at the beach. He loved lighthouses and enjoyed collecting sea glass and seashells along the shore. At home, he loved swimming and relaxing by the family's in-ground backyard pool.

Arthur was also known for his much-loved crab feasts, a family tradition that began with his father and that Arthur proudly carried on. Friends and family would gather at his home to eat crabs, swim in the pool, and enjoy one another's company. These gatherings reflected what mattered most to Arthur—family, tradition, laughter, and time spent together.

Arthur is survived by his beloved wife, Kathleen Kretzschmar; his son, A. Brian Kretzschmar and his wife, Megan; his daughter, Colleen Kretzschmar and her wife, Megan, and daughter in law, Christina Wright and her husband, Christopher; his cherished grandchildren, Lily, Ethan, Connor, and Thomas; his sisters, Linda Harris and her husband, George, Leslie Matassa and her husband, Joseph and Kathy Mariano; and his beloved nieces and nephews, Patrick, Nick, Ben, Danielle, Joey, Katie, and Michael.