Mary Ann Renze

Mary Ann Renze, age 88 of Manning, died Wednesday, September 18, 2019 surrounded by family.  She was born on May 10, 1931 and was the daughter of Henry and Elizabeth (Athmer) Reicks.  At the age of six, her parents passed away.  As a result, she was raised by her godparents, Uncle Francis and Aunt Anna Huber.  She grew up in Pomeroy and Carroll, Iowa and attended school in both communities.

On May 18, 1953, Mary Ann was united in marriage to Melvin Renze at St. Peter and Paul’s Catholic Church in Carroll.  The couple made their home on the farm three miles west of Manning and lived there from 1953-2006.  During that time, one of Mary Ann’s biggest joys was being around her family, raising six children:  Scott, Randy, Paul, Shirley, Carolyn, and Dan.  In 2006, they moved into their new home on the west edge of Manning where they enjoyed hosting many family gatherings which included their children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, extended family, and friends. Mary Ann and Melvin considered their friends to be the chocolate chips in the cookie of life.  It was not uncommon for them to entertain, feed, and house more than 50 people for overnight stays throughout holiday weekends and other special events.

Mary Ann was known for her chocolate chip cookies, homemade bread, jelly, and peach pies.  She loved taking care of her flowers, gardening, canning, and the work that it took to prepare food for large groups.  Playing card games with her friends and family was an enjoyable pastime.  She made quilts and embroidered pillow slips for each of her eighteen grandchildren, and never missed sending a birthday card or special note to them, always knowing how to make each member of the family feel loved. 

Mary Ann enjoyed being involved in the community and was an active member of the Little Flower Study Club, Catholic Daughters, Sacred Heart Altar Society, the Manning Hospital Auxiliary Snack Bar, and the VFW Auxiliary club.

She was a devout Catholic, attending Sacred Heart Parish in Manning, teaching 2nd grade Catechism for 30 years, including 1st Communion preparation.  She was also a member of the church choir for many years.

Mary Ann is survived by her husband, Melvin and six of their children:  Scott (Cindy) Renze, Randy (Donna) Renze, Paul (Jill) Renze, Shirley (Jon) Leinen, Carolyn (Carter) Reese, and Dan (Misty) Renze, 18 grandchildren, and 16 great-grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by their twins Dennis and Kenneth (deceased at birth), and Mary (stillborn).