Nancy Renninger

Nancy Renninger

Nancy Renninger, born July 19, 1947, in Lock Haven, Pa., surrounded by her loving family, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 25, at her home after a brief illness. She left behind a legacy of love, hard work and unwavering devotion to her family and community. She was the beloved daughter of the late Stanley and Eleanor Bitner.

Nancy graduated from Lock Haven High School in 1965 and began what would become a lifelong journey of dedication, resilience and compassion. At just 14 years old, she began working at Dr. Reese’s veterinary office — an early reflection of her deep love for animals, a passion that remained constant throughout her life. From caring for ponies and horses in her youth and participating in 4-H, to nursing countless animals back to health — including her rooster, Elvis — Nancy’s heart was always open to any creature in need.

She later worked at Keller & Munro’s lunch counter before becoming a phlebotomist at Lock Haven Hospital. After marrying the love of her life, Ernie Renninger, on Sept. 7, 1984, Nancy embraced her entrepreneurial spirit. Together, they built a life defined by partnership and shared ambition. Nancy became a true jack of all trades — running Renco Rentals, flipping homes, operating a gas station and earning both her real estate and appraiser licenses.

Nancy went on to become the owner of Coldwell Banker Renninger Realty and the founder of Renninger Appraisal Services. After retiring from real estate in 2009, she continued her passion for business and community through the Roxy Theatre and the opening of Calico Creek Feed & Pets, which she proudly operated in her later years.

Nancy’s love story with Ernie was one to admire. Their bond was rare and enduring — built on friendship, laughter and an unwavering desire to simply be together. Ernie preceded Nancy in death by five years, and she deeply missed him every day. It brings comfort to her family to know they are now reunited, together again just as they always wished to be.

A pillar of the Lock Haven community, Nancy generously gave her time and talents to countless organizations, including Millbrook Playhouse, the local women’s shelter, Great Island Presbyterian Church, Immaculate Conception Catholic School library, the SPCA, the Lock Haven Chamber of Commerce and the Lock Haven University Foundation. Her service was widely recognized, including honors from the Rotary Club, Lock Haven University and the Jaycees for her outstanding commitment to community service.

Her dedication to service did not go unnoticed. Nancy was recognized as the Rotary Club Vocational Service Director in 1994­1995 and received the Lock Haven Rotary Club Vocational Award in 2004 alongside her husband, Ernie, for their many years of service to the community. She was also presented with the Lock Haven University President’s Award for Campus and Community Service in 2003. In 1994, Nancy, along with Ernie and her son Chris Stoner, received the Presidential Award of Honor from Lock Haven University. Additionally, she was honored with a Community Service Award for her outstanding contributions to the Halloween Haunted Jail in October 1991.

Beyond her work and service, Nancy found her greatest joy in life’s simple pleasures — annual fishing trips to Canada, relaxing on her porch watching wildlife (especially deer), Sunday drives, boating and fishing with friends. She was an exceptional cook who loved hosting gatherings, and her grandchildren will forever cherish the magic of Nan’s holiday decorations and the warmth of her home.

Nancy is lovingly survived by her children: Christopher Stoner and his wife Angela, Terri and her husband; Todd Montgomery; and Timothy Renninger. She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren; Samantha and Timothy Lucas, Amanda and Mark Fields; Nathaniel and Michelle Renninger; Brittany Renninger; Alyssa and Kris Eberle; Colby Stoner; Corbin Stoner; and Caden Stoner; and her beloved great-grandchildren: Emma and Clara Lucas; Mack and Millie Fields; Eli and Eddy Eberle; and Kennedy and Juliana Renninger.

She is also survived by her siblings: Denny (Kathy) Bitner; Audrey (Tim) Yearick; Katherine (Keith) Nelson; Jon Bitner; Becky (Scott Glenn) Emerick.

A service honoring Nancy’s life will be held on Tuesday, March 31, at the Great Island Presbyterian Church, 12 W. Water St., Lock Haven, Pa, with Pastor Taylor Camerer officiating. Services are under the direction of the Gedon Funeral Homes and Cremation Services LLC., 121 W. Main St., Lock Haven Pa., 17745. Friends and family will be received at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the start of the service at 11:00 a.m. A luncheon will be provided in the church for family and close friends following the service.

Memorial donations can be made to Horses of Hope, 19 Forest Ave., Lock Haven, Pa. 17745 or The Clinton County SPCA, 33 Mill Rd, Lock Haven, Pa 17745.

Nancy will be remembered for her boundless compassion, her fierce work ethic, and the deep love she had for family, her community, and every living creature she encountered.

“She built a life rooted in love, gave endlessly to others, and found joy in every creature and every moment — leaving behind a legacy that will live on in all that knew her.”

Thoughts and memories can be made at the Gedon Funeral Homes Facebook Page, or www.GedonFuneral Homes.com.