Eugene Renger

Eugene Renger
08/09/1946-01/02/2026

Gene unexpectedly passed away due to natural causes on January 2, 2026. He is preceded in death by his parents Dr. Everett and Judy Renger and niece, Brandy Renger. He was born in Hallettsville, Texas where he attended Hallettsville Public schools along with Sacred Heart Sunday School. Upon his graduation from Hallettsville High School, Gene attended and graduated from Southwest Texas State (now Texas State University) with an undergraduate degree in Speech Therapy. He later attended Duke University where he received a degree as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). He was employed by several hospitals in the Houston area before becoming a full-time anesthetist, working with doctors Al Goodman and Bernie Natkin until his retirement.

Gene was very thorough and meticulously detailed in everything he did personally and professionally. He would cancel a pending surgery if he discovered previously undetected abnormalities or discrepancies in the patient's history or vital signs. Gene never deviated from his unalterable principles, as his concern for his patients was always his first priority.

Even as a child, Gene was obsessed with automobiles. At a young age, he wrote to General Motors and told them that he planned to be President of their Corporation some day! No one doubted it. Several nights a week, he would drive through car dealerships perusing and checking out every feature of the latest makes and models. He was no mechanic, but his knowledge was such that if shown even the smallest part of a vehicle, such as a headlight, taillight, or other integral component, he could tell you almost everything about the vehicle itself. This would include the cost, the size and type of engine, the firmness or softness of the ride, the kind of interior and the amount of head and leg room. Through diligent research, Gene became an expert in the pros and cons of many different kinds of cars and trucks. After he retired, Gene test drove vehicles for various car dealerships and also worked part time as a concierge for a well known Cadillac dealership in the Houston area. With Gene's expertise and genuine interest in others, he was quite the "go to" for young and old alike!

Gene enjoyed playing the slots in Louisiana. An annual trip to Lake Charles with long time friends Mary and Byron Zavesky and Faye Carroll, became the much-anticipated event on Gene's birthday every year. Another activity Gene thoroughly enjoyed was keeping up with family and friends over the years. Through all family events, whether sorrowful or joyous, Gene was always a welcome presence. He also enjoyed yard work and gardening, finding it relaxing and peaceful, possibly listening to Diana Ross and the Supremes while he worked! With Gene, Diana Ross could do no wrong!

Gene was very frugal with his money and his friends were endlessly entertained by his exploits. Everyone rejoiced when he finally replaced his flip phone with a smart phone, as now they could actually text him! One of the favorite stories Mark Gerlich tells in this regard, is of going to the liquor store with Gene, who upon being asked by the proprietor what kind of vodka he preferred, Gene replied, "the cheapest ya got," which happened to be Popov. This became Gene's regular brand when a night of celebrating was contemplated.

Gene is survived by his brother and sister-in-law Dr. Everett and Kay Renger, nieces Kristin Thalmann and Holly Crawford, and grand nieces and nephews Bailey and Chance Thalmann; and William, Everett (Rett) and Natalie Crawford. As children, Gene played many pranks on all of the above. One in particular, was his infamous story of the Easter bunny as only Gene could tell it! This is laughingly remembered every Easter without fail!

Gene is survived by a large loving family and many devoted friends. He will be greatly missed by all. Although he was frequently the life of the party, he had a very spiritual side. He was extremely dedicated to his Catholic faith and enjoyed worshiping in various Catholic churches throughout the Houston area, admiring the splendor and the beauty of the architecture as he took comfort in the Mass, which was often a daily part of his life. Gene was also a reliable and loving source of help to anyone in need. He will be remembered as being extremely devoted to the care of his mother in her later years.

A Rosary will be held at 10:30 am on January 30 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 400 East 5th Street, Hallettsville, Texas 77964 followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 am. Officiating will be Father Michael Rother and Gene's longtime friend, Monsignor John Peters. Internment will be in the Hallettsville City Cemetery. A reception will follow at the Sacred Heart Family Center.

The family would like to recognize Mark Gerlich and Kathy MacDonald for their tireless, compassionate and respectful aid in helping with numerous important details in regard to Gene's passing. If desired, contributions may be made to Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Hallettsville or a charity of one's choice.