This cake is for my Father-in-Law, Dennis Rettke.
He passed away last week. Its was very sudden, very unexpected, and has left a huge gaping whole in our family.
Dennis and my Mother-in-Law Patty are quite beloved in their community and around the world. Since Dennis retired from his job as a Superintendent, they have traveled around the world. (Living life without regret!) Thailand, Australia, Alaska, and England just to name a few.
But no matter where they go, Dennis would be quick to tell you his favorite place to go is one where he is surrounded by his eight grand-kids.
As people have come forward to share, story after story told reveals the great depths of Dennis’ generosity and kindness. To call him beloved is a mighty understatement.
Everywhere they went, people were charmed and impacted by these two amazing people.
Patty has had guests and family in her home since the moment we heard the news. She has been surrounded by love and prayers. Being the exceptional entertainer she is, she has made meals and had desserts and provided nourishment for all. Of course, many people have generously brought over meals and snacks. We are so thankful for their kindness.
But this Thursday and Friday, when the viewing and funeral are going to take place, she will have more people in her home than can reasonably fit. They are coming from far and near… traveling for many hours and even days.
And I wanted to help in any way I could.
Quite honestly, it has been very natural for me to turn to baking in my grief. This past week I have made cakes and breads and much more. But this cake, this cake is special.
It’s all for Dennis.
His favorite cake is, was, his wifes specialty. Chocolate Zucchini Cake. But Dennis also loved all things blueberry. So I decided to combine the two to make a cake that would encompass what he loved most.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup soft butter
- 2 cups sugar
- 3 eggs
- 2 cups shredded zucchini
- 2 1/2 cups flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup cocoa
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tsp vanilla
- Nuts, if desired
Instructions
- In stand mixer, cream together butter and sugar on medium speed.
- Lower speed and add in eggs, one at a time.
- Add in shredded zucchini.
- Mix flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and cocoa.
- Gradually add to zucchini mixture, beating well.
- Add in milk, vanilla, and nuts. Beat.
- Pour into greased 9x13 inch pan and bake for 1 hour at 350 degrees.
Normally I try to adapt recipes and make them unique, but not this time. I wanted to make the cake exactly as Patty does, exactly as Dennis loved to eat it.
After making this cake I realized how much friends had influenced me. I recalled a beautiful Dark Chocolate and Raspberry Buttercream Cake that the talented Sweetapolita made. I also remembered the fantastic Blueberry Buttercream from My Baking Addiction. For the ganache, I recalled the best and easiest recipe I have ever come across, Ganache Three Ways by Savory Sweet Life.
I am thankful for these talented woman whose talent left such an impact on me that my subconscious mind recalled their creations long before conscious mind did.
I am sorry to have shared here the deep sadness and grief we are in the midst of. I normally love to keep this blog joyful and light. I am just hoping that among all the hundreds of family and friends gathering together to celebrate one phenomenal man, that we can focus on the love and light Dennis brought to this world.
That we can be together and soak up the stories, photos, and memories of someone who truly made the world a better place.
And that over his special cake, we can move towards the future holding his memory, his wisdom, and his unfailing love close to our hearts.
So sorry to read about your FIL passing. It is a lovely tribute to a fine man to make such a lovely cake. Times like theses are hard, and the people who surround you will help sustain you all. When my hubby passed away I had someone bring a cake to the funeral home as well as my niece made a giant gingerbread house. I recall these gifts of love so fondly to this day. I took them home and let the kids have some fun with their “House” and pink jello cake.
I’m so sorry to hear about your loss. Funny how baking can help so many people deal with grief. Thanks for sharing, and take care!
Isnt that funny Katrina? Thanks for the kind words sweet friend.
So sorry for your loss, Amanda.
Sending good thoughts your way.
xoxo Your family is very blessed to have you.
I’m so sorry for your family’s loss, Amanda. This cake is just beautiful and is a perfect tribute!
I am so sorry for your loss. It sounds like he was a lovely man, and much loved. May he rest in peace. And I am sure he would be honored by the lovely tributes you have made – both written and baked.
So sorry for your loss. My father-in-law was born this day in 1902. He was a wonderful person who is greatly missed. Thanks for this yummy recipe. I’ll be sure to make it!
What a touching tribute to your father in law. I’m sure he would have loved that you made this for him.
My thoughts are with you and your family.
Amanda, I’m so sorry for your loss. As someone who baked, and blogged through her grief, I completely understand this post, and this cake. I wish things were different, but it’s clear that Dennis knew he was loved and cherished. My heart is with you.
I remember very clearly your loss Amber… and how openly you shared and allowed us to be a part of your grieving experience. Thank you for reaching out today even though your heart is still very saddened… you are such a sweet friend.
He is lucky to have you as his daughter-in-law. He is sure very happy out there for the love and gratitude and your tribute to him.
Sending blessings to you and your family Amanda.
Lovely post and lovely cake, Amanda. You’ll think of him every time you make a chocolate zucchini cake…and I bet your kids will grow up knowing it was their grandfather’s favorite cake.
Praying for peace and comfort for you all during this time. ♥
I had not thought of that… what a beautiful idea to get me through today. Many blessings sweet Bridget!
Amanda~
I’m so very sorry for the loss of such an amazing man. I’m happy that he meant so much to you and enjoyed your love and friendship. The hurt is so strong because your love for him was so strong. You were so fortunate to be a part of his life and for him to be a part of yours.
I will keep you and your family in my prayers.
MaryKay
Amanda dearest… I’m not sure why you’re sorry for sharing your grief… Of course we mostly try for sunshine and laughter, but sometimes, the best we can manage for our friends is sadness – and amazingly, they STILL love us and are grateful for even a tiny chance to give back to us (you)!!!!
I am so very sorry for your family’s loss – your FIL sounds like a terrific man! What a legacy he left behind! Hugs and love to all of you…
I’m very sorry for your family’s loss Amanda, my thoughts are with you all at this difficult time.
lovely post. So sorry for your loss.
I am so, so sorry for your loss.
I’ll keep you all in my prayers.
I am very sorry about your loss, your father inlaw sounds like a wonderful man, husband, dad and grandfather.
When ever he is I am sure he his looking upon all of you…and that delicious cake.
My condolences for you and your family during this difficult time.
On a lighter note, the cake look gorgeous, the color of the icing is just beautiful. Blueberries and chocolate is an unusual combination, I would have never paired them together.
I read this with a tear in my eye, such lovely words. He sounds like an amazing man. I’m sorry for your loss. Thinking of you. X x
I’m so sorry for your loss; he sounds like an incredible soul who will be sorely missed my many. And I think sharing your life’s up and downs in this blog is appropriate……we’ve come to know you through your talent and enthusiasm for good food……hearing what influences you, and what is happening in your life is all part of that. Thank you for sharing such an intimate time, and know that we all share in your loss of such a wonderful man.
What a beautiful tribute to your father-in-law. I can tell that he was an amazing man and that he is dearly missed already. This is an amazing cake to share too. I’m praying for you, friend! xo
So sorry for your loss. Unfortunately life is too short. May you and your family find comfort. Take care.
So very sorry for your loss. I am hoping time brings your peace. And I am sending virtual hugs!
So sorry to hear about your father-in-law’s passing. Wishing you and your extended family a time of reflection, remembering the wonderful times and sharing stories and memories. Thank you for your sharing your gift of delicious creations with us all. You’re a very generous person.
WOW that was one beautiful cake!! It looked like a semifreddo or something! I loved seeing the sliced piece–surprise! Chocolate zucchini
Condolences to you and your family at this time of grief, which is also bittersweet in that it allows us to truly celebrate a person’s life and reflect on how fortunate and blessed we are to have had them in our lives while we did.
My deepest condolences Amanda. It is great to see how you have chosen to commemorate his life! Sending some love from afar. ♡
What a wonderful way to remember your father in-law and both grieve and help out your family in this hard time.
May Christ’s Peace be with your family each and every day to get you through this time of transition.
The cake looks beautiful. I’m sure the family will appreciate your kindness. Again, I’m so sorry for your loss. We’re never really ready for our family to go Home. Hugs.
What a beautiful, beautiful tribute to your Father-in-Law, a gracious way to honor and remember him. A grief shared is made lighter. Thank you for sharing. I wish you all peace and strength during the grieving process. Hugs, Light & Love.
I’m so sorry about your father in law. At least it sounds like he lived every moment he was alive, which hopefully is some source of comfort.
Thanks for the delicious recipe.
What a beautiful tribute and a beautiful cake!
What a beautiful tribute! Thanks for sharing your heart so openly. Prayers for peace as you and your family grieve together. And what a beautiful cake!! As someone posted, I would have never thought to combime the two flavors, but am excited to try this. Did you use the Lemon Blueberry Buttercream recipe from My Baking Addition for this cake? It does not say.
My deepest sympathy……a beautiful tribute to your father-in-law.
I came to your blog, so I could look again at the beautiful picture of Dennis with your Audrey. I was saddened to see the picture of the lonely little girl after the van had taken her grandpa away. I just wanted to say that Dennis’ memorial service was beautiful today, and as sad as I was, I did manage some laughs and smiles. I found your recipe blog, and this cake recipe. I will bake this in honor of Dennis. I know that he was so proud of Patty’s cooking/baking talents, as he would bring samples into the District Office at Boyceville to share with us. My thoughts and prayers continue to be with Dennis’ family as you travel this journey without him. God’s blessings to all of you.
I shared your comment with Patty Sharon. Your kind words and thoughts meant a lot to her! Thank you and man blessings to you and yours~
I’m so very sorry for your loss.
I’m terribly sorry to hear about the loss of your father-in-law. This post is a lovely tribute.
Sorry for your loss!……Visiting your blog for the first time, as I found the link on Pinterest while looking for Matryoska doll cookies for my sister’s upcoming baby shower. I love, LOVE all things Matryoshka (I embrace my Russian ancestry) and am excited to throw a Matryoshka doll themed baby shower, as she is expecting a little “doll” of her own. You interested, by chance, in taking your Matryoshka confections again?? O h, how I love if you would! Your creations are far superior to any mass market matryoshka doll confections that I have come across, and like your previous customer, the two local bakeries in my town don’t want to take it on either. Just thought it’s worth asking, as my sister and new little niece is worth the best! Sarah Jayne (sarahjaynecity@gmail.com) p.s. I enjoyed parousing your beautiful site–what gorgeous cakes, esp. this Chocolate Zucchini, Blueberry Lemon Frosting work of art. Gonna try to bake this one with my daughter!
I am so very sorry for the loss your family has suffered. I can relate as I lost my Mom 5 months ago, also unexpectedly. Your father in law sounds like an amazing person and man, and I know he will be greatly missed. Interesting how people channel their grief..I have always turned to baking for just about any reason I can imagine…happiness, sadness, stress, grief, tension, delight…this beautiful cake that you created in the name of a wonderful person during your time of grief is so special..for many reasons..very generous of you to share..
Seriously a beautiful and touching post. Your family is blessed to call you Mom.
that’s a sweet homage and a truly special cake.
I’m so sorry for your loss, Amanda. I’m so thankful you are there for your mother in law.
Thinking and praying for you all.
SO sorry for your loss. I know nothing we can say or do can really ease the pain, but it’s plain to see that you have prayers and well wishes all around.
And I want to complement you on your tribute. That cake is GORGEOUS, as well as creative, delicious, and just plain moving. Well done.
Sorry, that’s compliment. Should proof read BEFORE hitting submit
Stumbled across your blog while I was looking for a zucchini recipe and my oh my, your blog is stunning. Absolutely gorgeous pictures! Glad to be your newest follower
I’ve been thinking about you, and praying for your family. Lovely cake. Lovely post. xoxo
Amanda,
First time coming to your blog (not really sure how I ended up here, looking through some cake decorating ideas, and wound up coming across your site). I’m so sorry for your loss. The cake is lovely and I’m sure Dennis would have loved it. Zucchini cakes are special in our family too, and I was asked to make one for my niece’s upcoming 3rd birthday, but I wanted to give it a twist. I think this recipe will do the trick. Thanks for sharing, it is a beautiful tribute to an obviously wonderful man.
What a beautiful tribute and connection to food. Really amazing.
We just nominated you for the One Lovely Blog Award (http://bit.ly/RSuwUx). Keep up the great work. We love checking out your blog! #TGIF
So sorry to hear about your father. What a lovely cake you made for him though. These pictures look beautiful and tasty. I just made some chocolate chip zucchini bread but now I want to make this. Thanks for sharing
My thoughts are with you and your family.
Absolutely beautiful post and cake… I’m sure it doesn’t do justice to the beauty of your FAther-In-Law’s character, but it comes awfully close!
I’ve been thinking a lot about you lately. I hope you and your family are doing well.
This cake is such a wonderful tribute for your father-in-law.
It’s so evident that this cake is filled with love as the primary ingredient. I’m so sorry for your loss and pray that the entire family is comforted with a heavenly peace.
Such a sweet tribute cake to Dennis. Sounds like he was a thoughtful man that embraced all life has to offer! Blessings & prayers to you all. Beautiful + original cake Amanda! xo
Ah! I take a teensy coffee break from the blogging realm and come back
to find that you have become amazing?! Wow, times have changed!
Keep up the primo work!