Jason Scott Retzlaff, age 43, of Crystal Lake, IL, passed away on January 17, 2026. He was born October 11, 1982 in Barrington, IL to his loving parents, Diana (née Dahlin) Kudsk and John Retzlaff.

Jason earned a certificate in computers, a field that fascinated him for most of his life. He was deeply passionate about technology, space, artificial intelligence, history, and inventions—always eager to explore what was next, what was possible. An early adopter of 3D printing, he could build a printer from scratch and loved diving into new innovations with enthusiasm. He read voraciously about his many interests and was always eager to share what he learned with friends and family, sending along articles and insights with the hope of sparking the same excitement in others.

He had a generous spirit—giving freely of his time, knowledge, and heart—often "generous to a fault." Despite facing many personal challenges throughout his life, Jason never stopped striving. He was endlessly resilient, always picking himself up and trying again, holding fast to hope and the belief that better days were ahead. He was a one-of-a-kind soul with a sharp mind, a kind heart, and a sense of humor that could brighten even the darkest day.

One of the most treasured bonds in his life was with his grandmother, Joan O’Dell. Their relationship was filled with laughter, mutual respect, and unconditional love. Jason cared for her with devotion until her passing. Her favorite phrase, “Nuts to you, Jason!”—usually accompanied by a tin of nuts—became a cherished family memory and a symbol of their special connection.

Jason’s absence leaves an enormous hole in the hearts of all who loved him. He will be remembered for his intellect, his compassion, and his unwavering determination to grow and improve, no matter the obstacles.

Jason was preceded in death by his sister, Jodi Morgan; maternal grandmother, Joan O’Dell; paternal grandparents, Albert & Beverly Retzlaff; and uncles, Dean Dahlin, Albert Retzlaff, and Walter Retzlaff. He is survived by his mother, Diana (Glenn) Kudsk; father, John (Laurie) Retzlaff; siblings, Rachael (Edward) Herrera, Paige Erwin, Garrett Kudsk, and Trent Kudsk; aunts and uncles, Chris Dahlin, Todd (Jamie) Dahlin, Kurt Dahlin, Nancy (Joseph) Cervantes, Robert Dahlin, Karl Dahlin, Roger (Janice) Retzlaff, Rita Christiansen, William Retzlaff, and Bette Mueller; cousins, Johanna Oefelein, Laurie (Hassan) Raza, Amy Dahlin, Wesley Dahlin, Tanya (Mattew) Hoose, Karly (Dave) Sanders, Christopher Retzlaff, Tom Christianson, Ken Retzlaff, Robert Retzlaff, and Melissa (Bill) Petrusczak; and nieces and nephews, Rayden, Rogan, Ryder, Anthony, and Everett.

A memorial visitation will be held from 4:00pm until funeral service at 7:00pm, Monday, February 9, 2026, at Kahle-Moore Funeral Home, 403 Silver Lake Road, Cary, IL 60013.

Interment will be private.

Final arrangements entrusted to Kahle-Moore Funeral Home. For more information, call 847-639-3817.