William Beneditto Renna

1924 - 2014

William Beneditto Renna
Oct 14, 1924 - June 19, 2014
Resident of San Jose
Bill was born to Christina and William Renna, in Hanford, CA. He graduated from Hanford Union High School in 1942, and attended USF before joining the Marine Corps and serving in the South Pacific. Upon his return, Bill attended Menlo College before transferring to Santa Clara University in 1947. He was an outstanding athlete, playing both football and baseball, and played in the East-West Shrine game in 1949. He also was selected for the All-American Baseball team that year. Bill later was inducted into the Santa Clara University Hall of Fame. He met his future wife Leronne (Roni) Richards, a student nurse at St. Mary's Hospital in San Francisco, as he was finishing his college career.
Bill began his professional baseball career in June 1949, signing with the New York Yankees, and was on the 1953 World Series team. Bill continued his professional baseball career by playing for the Philadelphia A's, the Kansas City A's, the San Francisco Seals (Pacific Coast League Champions), and the Boston Red Sox. He then worked in sales management in the Bay Area. Bill retired in 1990 to enjoy traveling with his wife, family and friends, and relaxing at their cabin and camp in the Sierra's. His double ringers were a common occurrence at the horseshoe pit and he was in great demand as a partner for tournaments.
Bill leaves his wife of 61 years, Roni, his children Barry Renna (Julie), Mari Renna, Jan Caster (Jeff), three grandchildren and one great grandchild. Bill was a special husband, the best dad, and a great friend to everyone. He truly will be missed by all. A Memorial Service will be held on August 8th at 2:00 PM at Mission Santa Clara Church. A reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity.