Obituary of Barbara Rennert

Barbara Sue Rennert was born in Monroe, Michigan on April 25, 1944 from the union of the late Howard and the late Charlotte (Helser) Dahlka. On July 19, 1986 Barbara married the love of her life, Thomas Rennert in Monroe. From this union, a blended family was formed of eight children. Barbara was a God fearing woman; she attended Church services at Stewart Road Church of God in Monroe. Barbara worked in health services teaching of CPR and CPR for pets, for the American Red Cross for over ten years until taking retirement in 2008. She was a member of the Monroe Garden Club and a member of Monroe VFW Post 1138 Ladies' Auxiliary. Barbara played in the Guitar Group at Saint Michael the Archangel Church in Monroe. She loved to learn new things; continuously educating herself, taking many variations of art classes. Barbara especially loved photography and scrapbooking was undoubtedly her favorite obsession. Barbara was an avid camper and loved to travel around the states, especially Florida. For the thrill of adventure, Barbara continuously sought out new and exciting things to do. Barbara was a fantastic baker and cook, creating many new recipes for her family to enjoy. Barbara, age 71 of Monroe passed away Wednesday, March 2, 2016 at U of M, surrounded by her family. She was preceded in death by her parents. To cherish her memory, Barbara leaves her loving husband of twenty nine years: Thomas; five daughters: Colleen Whitmam-Leavell of Monroe, Karla (Tom) Meyer of Monroe, Yvonne Hosch of Monroe, Marcella (Paul) Wiltse of California, and Danielle (Joe) Paille of Monroe; three sons: Craig (Carmen) Whitwam of Monroe, Tony (Paula) Rennert of California, and Andrew Rennert of Monroe; two brothers: Howard (Marlene) Dahlka of Texas and James Dahlka of Gibralter; a sister: Nancy (Bob) Hurd of South Rockwood; thirteen grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. Friends may gather from 2:00pm until 7:00pm on Monday, March 7, 2016 at Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe, 2442 North Monroe Street (734)384-5185. A Celebration of her life will follow at 7:00pm, also at Merkle's with Pastor Joe Byrd of Stewart Road Church of God officiating. Memorial donations for those who desire can be made to Humane Society of Monroe County. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com and then selecting the Online Tributes page.