Kenneth Harold Renner, 87, passed away peacefully at the VITAS Hospice House in Orlando, Florida, surrounded by the love of his family.

Ken was born on June 7, 1939, in Cleveland, Tennessee, to Paul Luther and Edna Mae Renner. He was one of six children and grew up on the Renner family dairy farm after the family settled in St. Petersburg, Florida.

In 1959, he married the love of his life, Joan D. Madden, beginning a remarkable marriage that spanned more than six decades. Together they built a loving family and shared a life grounded in faith, devotion, and unwavering commitment to one another. They celebrated 68 years of marriage in September.

While raising a growing family, Ken attended and graduated from the University of Florida, earning his bachelor's degree. He continued his education, earning both a master's degree and doctorate. During his time at the University of Florida, he was honored to be a member of the prestigious Florida Blue Key Honor Society.

Ken dedicated the majority of his professional life to education. For 35 years, he served as a Professor at the University of Central Florida, teaching Elementary Education and Early Childhood Development. He inspired countless students through his passion for learning, commitment to excellence, and genuine care for those he taught. His influence extended far beyond the classroom, shaping generations of educators and young lives throughout Florida.

In addition to his academic career, Ken was a hardworking entrepreneur and professional whose diverse experiences included owning a screen-printing business, working as a reservation agent for Piedmont Airlines, and serving as an ambulance delivery driver for Wheel Coach Transport.

Outside of work, Ken was an avid sports enthusiast. He loved all sports, especially basketball, baseball, softball, and golf. A lifelong supporter of the Florida Gators, he followed Gator athletics with great enthusiasm and pride. He was also a devoted Boston Red Sox fan and often spoke of legendary player Ted Williams as his personal hero.

Above all, Ken was a loving husband, father, grandfather, teacher, mentor, and friend. He lived a life defined by hard work, curiosity, faith, and a genuine love for people. A devoted Christian, his faith was the foundation of his life. He led by example, demonstrating kindness, integrity, humility, and a steadfast trust in God.

To his children, grandchildren, and all who knew him, Ken was far more than a professor, coach, entrepreneur, athlete, or mentor. He was a constant source of encouragement, wisdom, laughter, and unconditional love. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched through his family, his teaching, and his example.

After returning to Central Florida in 1969, Ken lived throughout the region for nearly six decades before making his home in Sorrento.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Joan D. Renner; his son, Michael K. Renner; his daughter, Kathryn J. Bussard; his sisters, Juanita Munroe and Velma Trotter; his grandchildren, Christina Hope, Jessica Murdoch, Brittany Miller, Holly Orwig, Kimberly Renner, Michael Renner, Jackie Renner, Keith Renner, and Amanda Renner; and his great-grandchildren, Cadence Murdoch, Jemma Murdoch, Logan Gohlke, Lorelei Gohlke, Pippin Miller, Landon Orwig, Grayson Orwig, Emmy Orwig, and Eden Game.

He was preceded in death by his son, Scott A. Renner; his parents, Paul L. and Edna M. Renner; his brothers, Arville Renner and Howard Renner; and his sister, Edwina Renner Spencer.

Celebration of Life Service

Thrive Church

951 N. Park Avenue

Apopka, Florida 32712

"Well done, good and faithful servant." – Matthew 25:23