Leroy J. Renken

Leroy J. Renken, age 93 of Hamel, IL, died Sunday, April 5, 2026, at St. Louis University in St. Louis, MO. He was born on Tuesday, December 20, 1932, in Edwardsville, IL, the son of Gottlieb and Louise (nee Steinhage) Renken. On Saturday, November 29, 1958, he married Beverly A. Renken (nee Sharp) who survives. He was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church. He was also a retired member of Hamel Volunteer Fire Department. Leroy was born in Edwardsville, IL. He graduated from Edwardsville High School in 1949. He was a carpenter with Union Local 295 and worked at RW Boeker Construction for over 20 years. Leroy and Beverly, along with their best friends, Rich & Beverly Vallow started Modern Carpet Company in Hamel during the 1970’s. Over the years Leroy also worked for his uncle, Henry Renken and Lantz Homes in Edwardsville as a carpenter. After retirement he worked for J F Electric as a delivery driver for 5 years, after that he mowed grass at Oak Brook golf course for over 15 years. Leroy enjoyed farming, watching the stock market and investing money. Leroy and Beverly travelled many places over the years with their friends the Vallows. He was a handyman helping out with church and volunteering to whoever needed help. Leroy enjoyed going to McDonald’s six days week and having coffee with his buddies. He loved spending time with his family and friends. Leroy especially enjoyed watching his grandkids’ sports events and later rooting on the University of Missouri sports teams where his grandkids attended. Survivors include his wife - Beverly A. Renken (nee Sharp); Children - Ann (Jerry) Frank and Stephen (Stephanie) Renken; Grandchildren - Dr. Megan (Alex) Sauer-Rosenow, Madison (Luke) Moriarty and Cole Renken; Great Grandchild - Jackson and Walker; and Brothers-In-Law: Jerry Stahlhut and John Sharp. He was preceded in death by his parents - Gottlieb & Louise (nee Steinhage) Renken; Grandson-In-Law - Nick Sauer; Sister & Brother-In-Law - Wilma & Mel Koenig; Sisters-In-Law - Jane Stahlhut and Carol Sharp; and Father-In-Law & Mother-In-Law - Florence & Sherman Sharp. Arrangements are being handled by Dauderman Mortuary in Hamel, IL. Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Hamel, IL. Funeral Service will be at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Hamel, IL., with Rev. Benjamin Ball, Pastor, officiating. Interment will be at St. Paul Lutheran Cemetery in Hamel, IL. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul Memorial Fund or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Leroy J. Renken

December 20, 1932 - April 5, 2026