Connie "Connie" Jean Renger

Connie Renger, a dear member of her community and family, passed away peacefully on May 19, 2025 at the age of 80. Born February 3, 1945, Connie spent her life dedicated to family, friends, and the passions that brought her joy. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness and unwavering dedication to her family, especially to her two beloved grandsons.  While we miss her dearly, we are happy that she is now in Heaven with her husband, family members, and friends who preceded her to the afterlife.  Connie is survived by her son, daughter-in-law, grandsons, sisters, nieces and nephews.  Her passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Her legacy will live on through the memories shared, the lives she impacted, and the joy she spread. She will be dearly missed and her memory will forever remain in our hearts.

Connie was raised in Liberty Center, Iowa, with her brother Kenny and two sisters Cathy and Carol.  She was raised on a farm in a loving family and her fondness of Iowa stayed with her until the very end.  She often considered moving back but she couldn’t bear the thought of being too far away from her grandsons.

Her professional life was marked by numerous achievements.  She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education, English, and Business from William Penn College in Oskaloosa, IA.  She started her career as a high school teacher in Illinois, then a stay-at-home mother, followed by employment at a replenishment center/distribution warehouse in Elizabethtown, Kentucky.  It was at the latter that she worked her way up from secretary/receptionist to manager of the entire facility.  This was a testament to her strength and capability in a time when female leadership was not the norm.

Connie was a devoted family person. She met Jerome Charles “JC” Renger at William Penn College and they ultimately married.  Rumor is that she initially thought him to be very obnoxious.  He must have won her over because together they shared just under 49 years of love and companionship until Jerome passed in 2015. She was the proud mother of Andrew Renger, her only child, who married Yoo Jeana Renger in 2006.  She was blessed to call Jeana not only her daughter but also her friend.  Connie’s preferred title was “Nana” as her favorite pastime was to be with her grandsons Grant and Bennett Renger.  The boys were blessed that Connie lived with them for a time and was actively engaged in their lives. 

No memorial service will be held as Connie’s family and friends will joyfully celebrate her life amongst themselves.  While not expected, in lieu of flowers friends and extended family can make donations in Connie’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association here, the terrible disease that took her from us.

Rest in peace, Mom. I will never forget you and I was fortunate to have such a wonderful mother and friend.  I am deeply sad that you are no longer with us but joyful that you were able to peacefully leave the burdens of this world behind.  I will always cherish everything you taught me, appreciate the sacrifices you made for me, and remember the unconditional love you gave me.