Gary Renner was born on November 16, 1946 and passed away at his home on April 20, 2021 after a long battle with cancer. Stubborn till the end, he outlived his initial diagnosis by several times, and made the most of his hard-fought time with his family and friends. His sense of humor and stubbornness was prevalent until the very end.

Gary served in the Army in Korea as a guard and dog handler on the border from 1966 to 1968. He was very proud of his time served for his country, and for his accomplishments with his canine partners. He rarely missed an opportunity to honor his service and that of others by attending local events, such as the Ferndale Memorial Day parade.

He came back to Ferndale and drove logging truck and married Helen Etter. They moved to Pertrolia where they raised their daughters. Gary worked for the Humboldt County Road Department for many years, and also served the Petrolia area as a volunteer on the fire department for many years. He later remarried Lynne and lived in Fortuna for his remaining years. A truck driver by trade, he worked for many local companies, and also owned his own truck for a number of years. He and Lynne were known for driving around to visit and had their regular dinner stops, and also enjoyed traveling together for many years. His devotion to Lynne was unmistakeable, but even he did not know how deep that devotion ran until the last few years where he took on the role of her primary care giver during her time of need. He displayed the kind of patience, kindness and love that is truly admirable.

He enjoyed hunting, whether for turkeys with grandkids or his friend Joey Willey, deer, or probably his favorite, squirrel hunting with his buddy Bill Johnson. He enjoyed his coffee in the morning and afternoon, as well as the company that came with it. Most mornings and afternoons you would find him at Poppa Joe’s playing cards and BSing with all the crew. Also a favorite coffee stop was the afternoon at Hansen’s Truck Stop, and later at McDonalds. For a number of the most recent years, the best part of his week was the Wednesday auction at Humboldt Auction Yard, where he was always known to lend a hand, sample the special at the cafe or just have fun harassing the crew. He was always up for helping anyone who needed help branding calves or hauling cattle, even as late as three weeks before his passing.

He was well known for attending all sporting events, but especially basketball. He may have even been known to draw upon his former role as a referee, and offer his assistance in the form of objections from the stands. Papa had a huge heart, and was a very devoted husband, father grandfather and friend. Though he could be opinionated and predictably inappropriate at times, his humor and opinions will be missed by us all.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Francis and Enid Renner, Stepfather Charlie White,and Brothers Ray & Roy. Gary is survived by his wife, Lynne Renner; his two daughters, Patti Prior (Chris) and Penni Renner Richardson (Jabe); and his five grandchildren, Parker, Paden, Delana, Cade, and Chase, Lynne’s children Megan Riley, her kids Aiden and Jacob, and son Tom. Also worth mention, his dog Buddy who never left his side and numerous close friends. I do believe that he and Larry Pries are playing cards, drinking coffee, talking hunting and racing while they watch over us every day.

We would like to give extra thanks to the entire Eureka Oncology Department, but especially Beckie McCanless and Dr Hardy. They are all a very special group of people, doing the work of angels. Becca and the crew at Poppa Joe’s were special to him, and their love and support are truly appreciated. Also, Grammie (Helen) was ever dependable for her support and care for both Gary and Lynne in anyway that was needed, her Sunday family dinners always a favorite of Garys as well. We would also like to say thanks for all of the kindness and support of all his friends and family along this journey.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, July 11, 1 p.m. at the Renner Family picnic grounds off of Price Creek Road in Ferndale. Lunch will be served, and memories shared. Price Creek Road is off of Blue Slide Road between Ferndale and Rio Dell. There will be a flags and signs to mark the turn off. If you have any questions feel free to give the family a call.

Papa was a very proud Veteran, any contributions in his honor can be made to the Ferndale Veterans Hall.

Ferndale Veterans Hall
PO Box 624
Ferndale, Ca.
95536

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