Renee Mary Holz

Renee Mary Holz, lovingly known as “Nana,” age 65, of Cottage Grove, was born on October 11, 1960, to Charles and Theresa Hinz. She passed away at her home on October 19, 2025, surrounded by her beloved family and devoted sisters. Renee was a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt, known for her deep love of family, steadfast faith, and zest for life.

Renee is survived by her loving husband of 45 years, Dennis Holz, and their children: Nickolas (Shannen), Laura Holz, and Valarie (Nick) Brainard. She was a proud and devoted grandmother, loving each grandchild for who they were: Clara, Weston, Oliver Brainard, and Charlie Brainard. She is also survived by her siblings: Jim (Nita), Elaine (Joel) Greer, Janella (Chuck) Schroers, Tina (Jim) Berkhoel, Pam Carlson, Tom (Louise), Grace (Mark) Alberg, and Terry (Jane); sisters-in-law Ann Hinz, JoAnn Hinz and Pat Hinz; and brother-in-law Bob Younger. She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Theresa Hinz; her brothers Philip, Michael, and Donald; her sister Patricia Younger; brother-in-law Tom Carlson; and nephews Kelly Hinz and Morgan Hinz.

Renee lived each day deeply rooted in her faith—a faith that shaped her words, her actions, and the way she loved. It was through this spiritual strength that she nurtured her family, offering compassion, kindness, and support. She wrapped her arms and heart around her children and grandchildren, guiding them with grace and purpose. Renee’s love was active and intentional—she lived it by showing up, stepping in, and always being present, just as her faith taught her to be.

Her love for children became her life’s work through her home daycare. Renee cared not only for her own children but for so many neighborhood kids who became like family. She delighted in watching each child grow—from laughter-filled days of play to school years and beyond. Renee found joy in every giggle, every milestone, and every moment spent nurturing the next generation.

Renee’s talents bloomed in her love of nature. She had a special touch for gardening—especially her cherished hostas and hydrangeas. She loved getting her hands in the soil, watching the greenery flourish, and generously sharing plants and gardening wisdom with friends and family. But her true passion for the outdoors was found in her adventures—hiking the North Shore, exploring the rugged beauty of Utah, and skiing with her kids. She loved teaching the grandkids and hooking anyone that was interested in skiing. She loved sharing her joy of skiing with all. Her heart came alive outside, where she felt most at peace.

Her favorite place on Earth was the cabin—a space where nature, adventure, and love all came together. Whether she was knee-boarding, tubing, cruising on the pontoon, or laughing with the grandkids, the cabin was where she felt truly free. These joyful moments, shared with family and friends, will be cherished forever.

Cancer never defined Renee—it was just one chapter in her story. What defined her was her courage, strength, resilience, and faith. Even in the hardest moments, these qualities never dimmed. Instead, they grew stronger, shining brightly through every challenge she faced. Renee leaves behind a powerful legacy of love and faith that will live on in all who knew her. Though she will be deeply missed, her light, laughter, and zest for life will continue to shine in our hearts.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 am on Wednesday, November 5, 2025 with a visitation from 10:00-11:00 am at The Church of St. Rita, 8694 80th Street S.; Cottage Grove, MN. All are invited to a luncheon after the service with interment following at Cottage Grove Cemetery in Cottage Grove, MN.

A Celebration of Life will take place from 4:00pm to 8:00pm on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at The Old Ptacek’s Event Center, 1449 Orrin Rd, Prescott, WI 54021. Please come to raise a glass, share your favorite stories and celebrate Renee the way she lived – surrounded by laughter, love and good company.

Memorials preferred to:

University of Minnesota Masonic Cancer Center, Minneapolis, MN. https://cancer.umn.edu/donate

Our Lady in Peace Hospice & Home Health Care, St. Paul, MN. Our Lady of Peace Hospice & Home Health Care; 2076 St Anthony Ave, St Paul, MN 55104 (651) 789-5031. https://ourladyofpeacemn.org

LIVESTREAM INFORMATION: For those who would like to participate in the service via livestream, you can watch the service by scrolling to the bottom of this page, and click “PLAY" to begin. Please leave a message of support on our Tribute Wall to let the family know you were able to watch the service. If you are having trouble with the Livestream, the service will be available to watch later in the day.