Thomas Stuart Renne's Obituary
September 13, 1948 – February 27, 2023
Thomas Stuart Renne was a family man at heart and he lived a life of true example by every measure. He lived with integrity, honor, and kindness and walked in faith throughout his life. Tom, or Dah or Bah-Bah, as he was affectionately called by his grandchildren, never missed an opportunity for a silly card trick, board game, impromptu dress up performance in the living room, or an afternoon making chocolate chip cookies. Watching him with his grandchildren affirmed what everyone who knew Tom well has long known–at his core, he was a gentle giant who brought joy, laughter, and spontaneity to each day.
Tom was born on September 13, 1948 and raised in Kenosha, Wisconsin and graduated from Carthage College in 1970. His service as a young man in Vietnam shaped him tremendously, imparting a value for helping others, bravery, selflessness, and a true love for his country. Just after returning from his service in the Army, Tom married Mary Collins Renne, whom he met on campus before graduating. Together, Tom and Mary built a beautiful life centered on shared values, faith, and love for family. Tom’s 38 year career in medical sales led them all across the country, from Iowa to Boston to Oregon. West Linn was their true home and a place where they have
deep roots and a true community that was a cornerstone of their life. Mary and Tom shared a very special bond and loved each other dearly. In small and big ways, Tom made sure that Mary knew just how much he cherished her. They recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary and lived a married life full of experiences that mirrored what mattered most—card nights with dear friends, Sunday service at their local church, taking walks together, traveling, visiting family, listening to the waterfall in their backyard, volunteering, and enjoying a fire on cold evenings. Their greatest joy, of course, came from time with their children, Julie and Mark, and their four grandchildren.
Tom understood well the importance of community, service, and patriotism. From early days as an Eagle Scout to his most recent days mentoring young men in business and leadership, Tom was a true teacher and leader. He delighted in any opportunity to help mentor others and work to support the success of those around him. He greatly enjoyed spending time in fellowship with other men from his local church and volunteering for causes that mattered. On the day he passed, Tom had just volunteered in his granddaughter’s classroom. His legacy reminds all of us that helping others is what life is all about. Tom Renne passed away passed away in his home on Monday, February 27, 2023 at 74 years old. He died suddenly, leaving his family all mourning his unexpected and all too-soon passing. He will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and everyone who knew him. Tom is survived by his wife Mary Renne; son Mark (and Lynn) Renne, daughter Julie (and Gabe) Miller; his four grandchildren Anberlin, Stella, Sydney and Logan; and his brother Dr. James Renne (and Lynn).
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations made in Tom Renne’s name to The Welcome Center at The Living Savior Lutheran Church https://secure.myvanco.com/L-Z2QP/campaign/C-12QPB , which Tom helped to establish. A memorial service will be held at the Living Savior Lutheran Church in Tualatin, Oregon on March 25, 2023 at 11:00 am. All who knew Tom are welcome to come pay tribute to his life and legacy.
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