Barry Lee Renner, age 74, of Elkton, MD, passed away on Friday, January 15, 2021. He was born on January 27, 1946 in Bloomsburg, PA to the late Paul Franklin Renner and Elva Agnes (Ritter) Renner. Barry graduated as a mathematics major from Franklin and Marshall College, Lancaster, PA and holds graduate degrees in mathematicsContinue Reading
Barry Lee Renner, age 74, of Elkton, MD, passed away on Friday, January 15, 2021. He was born on January 27, 1946 in Bloomsburg, PA to the late Paul Franklin Renner and Elva Agnes (Ritter) Renner.
Barry graduated as a mathematics major from Franklin and Marshall College, Lancaster, PA and holds graduate degrees in mathematics from the University of Delaware. He was employed at DuPont for twenty-five years before retiring and subsequently from Northern Telecom of Canada. During his career at DuPont, Barry continued to teach and tutor mathematics at multiple colleges and universities in the tri-state area. Ultimately, he was asked and accepted the position of the first Chairman of the new Mathematics program of study at Wilmington University. He was an avid reader who read all subjects of interest including history, art, science, physics, mathematics, and he especially liked to relax reading Sherlock Holmes. Barry enjoyed fishing and watching old westerns, especially if they starred with John Wayne. He was an animal lover – especially his dog Sammie. His enjoyed his extensive collection of books and films as he continued to decline from Parkinson’s Disease. He frequently quoted movie favorites such as the references to John Wayne. Barry will be dearly missed by his family, his professional colleagues, and all those who knew him.
Barry is survived by his beloved wife of fifty-two years, Joan M. Renner; daughter, Angela Marie Darrenkamp; son, Andrew Lee Renner; three grandchildren; brother, Dennis Wayne Renner, Michael Krone, and other extended family members.
A visitation to honor Barry’s life will be held on Saturday, January 23, 2021 at R.T. Foard Funeral Home, 259 East Main Street, Elkton, MD 21921 where friends and family may begin visiting from 3:00-5:00 PM. Services will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made payable to “Michael J. Fox Foundation” for Parkinson’s research and send in care of the funeral home.
Brian McDonald
left a message on May 5, 2021:
I just now saw that Barry has passed in January. I am honored to have considered him my friend. I always loved conversing with him about so many things, history, good books or films to see. I will miss him. I hope you, his family are all as best as can be under these circumstances.
Karen Keville
left a message on March 17, 2021:
I worked for Barry at DuPont and Northern Telecom for many years. He was the Best Boss I have ever had and an even better man. Loved his family to the moon. His spirit lives on.
Dawn Cox
left a message on January 26, 2021:
Joan and family,
You do not know me, and I only knew Barry remotely (phone and internet). We never met in person. Barry was my supervisor at Wilmington University for many years. I teach developmental math online and I live in Oregon. We got to know each other a bit and he would sometimes call me to discuss the math department and policies. His favorite topic, however, was my goats. He would always start out a conversation with "young lady, how are your goats". By the way, I am not a young lady at all. I think that he got a kick out of calling me that. From there the conversation would turn to departmental issues. He liked to pick my brain. When the new department head took over, we lost touch but his loss is deeply felt in my heart. I really enjoyed each and every interaction that I had with him.
You do not know me, and I only knew Barry remotely (phone and internet). We never met in person. Barry was my supervisor at Wilmington University for many years. I teach developmental math online and I live in Oregon. We got to know each other a bit and he would sometimes call me to discuss the math department and policies. His favorite topic, however, was my goats. He would always start out a conversation with "young lady, how are your goats". By the way, I am not a young lady at all. I think that he got a kick out of calling me that. From there the conversation would turn to departmental issues. He liked to pick my brain. When the new department head took over, we lost touch but his loss is deeply felt in my heart. I really enjoyed each and every interaction that I had with him.
Holly Carhart
left a message on January 25, 2021:
Joan,
We are so sorry on your loss of Barry. He was a great man and I'm glad we got to know him and you through your dogs. We will keep you in our thoughts. Holly, Sara and everyone at Captain's Quarters.
We are so sorry on your loss of Barry. He was a great man and I'm glad we got to know him and you through your dogs. We will keep you in our thoughts. Holly, Sara and everyone at Captain's Quarters.
Krystle Blomquist
left a message on January 23, 2021:
Dear Joan with your family,
We were lucky enough to have met Barry when we moved in a few houses down with our tiny little babes 12 years ago. We quickly realized what a treasure his company was and were delighted to visit him on his walks and when we’d run into him at the children’s bus stop. Our kiddos grew old enough to independently explore the neighborhood and would often come running back home after a quick visit with Barry with arms full of hand-me down National Geographic’s and stacks of books. We still spend hours flipping through the books and magazines together. We only have a few short years of memories with Barry but they are treasured ones.
May God continue to take care. If you ever need anything we’re just a step away.
With our Love and Prayers, Nate and Krystle Blomquist
We were lucky enough to have met Barry when we moved in a few houses down with our tiny little babes 12 years ago. We quickly realized what a treasure his company was and were delighted to visit him on his walks and when we’d run into him at the children’s bus stop. Our kiddos grew old enough to independently explore the neighborhood and would often come running back home after a quick visit with Barry with arms full of hand-me down National Geographic’s and stacks of books. We still spend hours flipping through the books and magazines together. We only have a few short years of memories with Barry but they are treasured ones.
May God continue to take care. If you ever need anything we’re just a step away.
With our Love and Prayers, Nate and Krystle Blomquist
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Kara DiCecco
left a message on January 22, 2021:
Joan, please accept my sincere condolences on the loss of your beloved husband. Barry was so personable and I remember him well from the university. While I cannot lessen the loss, may it help to know I will have you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Liz Jordan
left a message on January 22, 2021:
Joan and family, I'm so sorry for your loss. Barry was such a good friend and boss to my dad, Jim Plouffe, at WilmU; he always enjoyed when Barry called just to chat. Barry was always kind to me and everyone else at WilmU and always had a smile or a friendly comment to share. My thoughts are with you.
Jerry L
left a message on January 22, 2021:
Renner family, I am very sad to hear about your loss. I was a much older student of Barry's at Wilm U. I had him for several classes and he was very instrumental in helping me stick it out through the rough patches. I really admired his spirit and his passion for helping and teaching others. My prayers will be with you.
Karen McColley
left a message on January 22, 2021:
Dear Joan and family, Barry was a wonderful professor for Wilmington University. I had him long ago for the course, History of Mathematics, and though most people might cringe at a course like that, he made it not only engaging but fun. He inspired his students to not just accept what was shared but to research it further. He used humor every now and then, to lighten the atmosphere and keep his students engaged in learning, And now, I reflect sometimes on how he taught this class, because I too am a teacher and tutor for Wilmington University!
Sending prayers of comfort, Karen McColley ABD MSE MBA
Sending prayers of comfort, Karen McColley ABD MSE MBA
Marge
left a message on January 21, 2021:
Joan and Family, I was so sad to read about Barry today. I worked for him for several years at Du Pont and know he was a wonderful Father, Husband and Friend. We have lost a great man.
Anita Kumpel Miller
left a message on January 21, 2021:
Joan and family, I am so very sorry for your loss. I worked with Barry at DuPont and have many great memories. He was a really great guy.
Sheila Sharbaugh
left a message on January 21, 2021:
Joan, I am so saddened to hear of your loss. Barry was a good friend and colleague for many years, I loved talking with him about books (and Statistics :-). Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your children.
Angie Steele-Tilton
left a message on January 21, 2021:
Dear Joan and Family, I am sorry to hear of your loss. Barry was so helpful when I was a new Chair at Wilmington University. His kind words of encouragement will always be a treasured memory. Take care, you will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Denise Wells
left a message on January 21, 2021:
Barry's enthusiasm was contagious! Such a kind-hearted colleague. My condolences to you and your family, Joan. On behalf of the College of Health Professions, we pray that the fond memories may provide you some comfort.
Eileen C Borders
left a message on January 21, 2021:
Barry was a great boss! I am so very sorry for your loss. I remember he had a rabbit who needed his teeth trimmed. Great guy!
Barbara Beard
left a message on January 21, 2021:
Joan and Family, we are sorry for your loss. Barry was a wonderful friend and co-worker. May you find comfort in the memories and love you and Barry shared. Chuck and Barbara
Joan Renner
left a message on January 21, 2021:
The Renner family suggests making contributions to the Michael J Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research to help find a cure. Barry was an avid supporter and followed the research closely.
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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Brian McDonald
left a message on May 5, 2021:
I just now saw that Barry has passed in January. I am honored to have considered him my friend. I always loved conversing with him about so many things, history, good books or films to see. I will miss him. I hope you, his family are all as best as can be under these circumstances.
Karen Keville
left a message on March 17, 2021:
I worked for Barry at DuPont and Northern Telecom for many years. He was the Best Boss I have ever had and an even better man. Loved his family to the moon. His spirit lives on.
Dawn Cox
left a message on January 26, 2021:
Joan and family,
You do not know me, and I only knew Barry remotely (phone and internet). We never met in person. Barry was my supervisor at Wilmington University for many years. I teach developmental math online and I live in Oregon. We got to know each other a bit and he would sometimes call me to discuss the math department and policies. His favorite topic, however, was my goats. He would always start out a conversation with "young lady, how are your goats". By the way, I am not a young lady at all. I think that he got a kick out of calling me that. From there the conversation would turn to departmental issues. He liked to pick my brain. When the new department head took over, we lost touch but his loss is deeply felt in my heart. I really enjoyed each and every interaction that I had with him.
You do not know me, and I only knew Barry remotely (phone and internet). We never met in person. Barry was my supervisor at Wilmington University for many years. I teach developmental math online and I live in Oregon. We got to know each other a bit and he would sometimes call me to discuss the math department and policies. His favorite topic, however, was my goats. He would always start out a conversation with "young lady, how are your goats". By the way, I am not a young lady at all. I think that he got a kick out of calling me that. From there the conversation would turn to departmental issues. He liked to pick my brain. When the new department head took over, we lost touch but his loss is deeply felt in my heart. I really enjoyed each and every interaction that I had with him.
Holly Carhart
left a message on January 25, 2021:
Joan,
We are so sorry on your loss of Barry. He was a great man and I'm glad we got to know him and you through your dogs. We will keep you in our thoughts. Holly, Sara and everyone at Captain's Quarters.
We are so sorry on your loss of Barry. He was a great man and I'm glad we got to know him and you through your dogs. We will keep you in our thoughts. Holly, Sara and everyone at Captain's Quarters.
Krystle Blomquist
left a message on January 23, 2021:
Dear Joan with your family,
We were lucky enough to have met Barry when we moved in a few houses down with our tiny little babes 12 years ago. We quickly realized what a treasure his company was and were delighted to visit him on his walks and when we’d run into him at the children’s bus stop. Our kiddos grew old enough to independently explore the neighborhood and would often come running back home after a quick visit with Barry with arms full of hand-me down National Geographic’s and stacks of books. We still spend hours flipping through the books and magazines together. We only have a few short years of memories with Barry but they are treasured ones.
May God continue to take care. If you ever need anything we’re just a step away.
With our Love and Prayers, Nate and Krystle Blomquist
We were lucky enough to have met Barry when we moved in a few houses down with our tiny little babes 12 years ago. We quickly realized what a treasure his company was and were delighted to visit him on his walks and when we’d run into him at the children’s bus stop. Our kiddos grew old enough to independently explore the neighborhood and would often come running back home after a quick visit with Barry with arms full of hand-me down National Geographic’s and stacks of books. We still spend hours flipping through the books and magazines together. We only have a few short years of memories with Barry but they are treasured ones.
May God continue to take care. If you ever need anything we’re just a step away.
With our Love and Prayers, Nate and Krystle Blomquist
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Kara DiCecco
left a message on January 22, 2021:
Joan, please accept my sincere condolences on the loss of your beloved husband. Barry was so personable and I remember him well from the university. While I cannot lessen the loss, may it help to know I will have you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Liz Jordan
left a message on January 22, 2021:
Joan and family, I'm so sorry for your loss. Barry was such a good friend and boss to my dad, Jim Plouffe, at WilmU; he always enjoyed when Barry called just to chat. Barry was always kind to me and everyone else at WilmU and always had a smile or a friendly comment to share. My thoughts are with you.
Jerry L
left a message on January 22, 2021:
Renner family, I am very sad to hear about your loss. I was a much older student of Barry's at Wilm U. I had him for several classes and he was very instrumental in helping me stick it out through the rough patches. I really admired his spirit and his passion for helping and teaching others. My prayers will be with you.
Karen McColley
left a message on January 22, 2021:
Dear Joan and family, Barry was a wonderful professor for Wilmington University. I had him long ago for the course, History of Mathematics, and though most people might cringe at a course like that, he made it not only engaging but fun. He inspired his students to not just accept what was shared but to research it further. He used humor every now and then, to lighten the atmosphere and keep his students engaged in learning, And now, I reflect sometimes on how he taught this class, because I too am a teacher and tutor for Wilmington University!
Sending prayers of comfort, Karen McColley ABD MSE MBA
Sending prayers of comfort, Karen McColley ABD MSE MBA
Marge
left a message on January 21, 2021:
Joan and Family, I was so sad to read about Barry today. I worked for him for several years at Du Pont and know he was a wonderful Father, Husband and Friend. We have lost a great man.
Anita Kumpel Miller
left a message on January 21, 2021:
Joan and family, I am so very sorry for your loss. I worked with Barry at DuPont and have many great memories. He was a really great guy.
Sheila Sharbaugh
left a message on January 21, 2021:
Joan, I am so saddened to hear of your loss. Barry was a good friend and colleague for many years, I loved talking with him about books (and Statistics :-). Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your children.
Angie Steele-Tilton
left a message on January 21, 2021:
Dear Joan and Family, I am sorry to hear of your loss. Barry was so helpful when I was a new Chair at Wilmington University. His kind words of encouragement will always be a treasured memory. Take care, you will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Denise Wells
left a message on January 21, 2021:
Barry's enthusiasm was contagious! Such a kind-hearted colleague. My condolences to you and your family, Joan. On behalf of the College of Health Professions, we pray that the fond memories may provide you some comfort.
Eileen C Borders
left a message on January 21, 2021:
Barry was a great boss! I am so very sorry for your loss. I remember he had a rabbit who needed his teeth trimmed. Great guy!
Barbara Beard
left a message on January 21, 2021:
Joan and Family, we are sorry for your loss. Barry was a wonderful friend and co-worker. May you find comfort in the memories and love you and Barry shared. Chuck and Barbara
Joan Renner
left a message on January 21, 2021:
The Renner family suggests making contributions to the Michael J Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research to help find a cure. Barry was an avid supporter and followed the research closely.
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.