Thomas R. Renner

Thomas R. Renner, age 77, of Franklin, North Carolina passed away at his residence on Monday January 11, 2021. He was born on September 23, 1943 in Waukesha, Wisconsin where he graduated high school. On March 8, 1969 he married Kaylynn Kaiser. She preceded him in death on October 31, 1988. He married his wife of 30 years Nancy Hanson on November 10, 1990.

Tom was a member of the United States Army Reserve from 1965 – 1971. He attended Culinary school at MIT from 1962 - 1964. He was a chef for over 40 years. He was a wonderful salesman and restaurant manager in his career and together with Nancy owned a restaurant (Mariners Inn) in North Fort Myers, Florida for 5 years. He moved to the mountains of North Carolina in 2005. Tom attended Trinity Church and served as a Deacon for 6 years and loved the Lord. Through different stages of his life Tom enjoyed boating, golfing, car races, his Corvette, the pool, and reading. He was a wonderful storyteller and had a witty sense of humor known for his endless knowledge of jokes. But of course, his passion was especially cooking and entertaining for family and friends.

He is survived by his wife Nancy; two daughters, Trisha (Joe) Renner, Tara (Todd) Feiter; a stepson, Jesse (Joanne) Gabrielski; stepdaughter Leana (CJ) Gabrielski; seven grandchildren, Katrina, Kaylee, Henry, Elliot, Kaisten, Brewer, Jordynn.

He was preceded in death by dear friends as well as his parents, Donald and Charlotte (Ott) Renner; one brother, Jerry Renner; one sister, Judy Higbee and first wife Kaylynn.

Tom will be missed by his family and friends as he was a loving, devoted, and caring spouse, father, brother, uncle, and friend. His great stories, warm heart, and sunny disposition will be deeply missed by all.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Food Ministry at Trinity Church, or JDRF or Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance.