Harry RENDLE Jr.

1931 - 2025

Harry M. Rendle Jr., 94, of Spokane, WA, passed away peacefully, with his family at his side, on March 16th, 2025.

Harry was born on February 23rd, 1931, in Spokane, WA, to Harry M. and Maria Eleanor Rendle. He attended Irving Elementary School, Lewis and Clark High School, and two years at Gonzaga University, before putting his education on hold to care for his ailing mother. After her death in 1951, he transferred to Washington State University where he received his Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy.

While studying at Washington State University, Harry reconnected with his childhood friend, Leslie Jean Nelson, and they married on August 23rd, 1952. They were married for 69 years and blessed with three children, Kathie, Steve, and Sandra.

After college, they moved to Mississippi, where Harry served two years in the Air Force, before moving back to Spokane and working as a pharmacist at Standard Drug (then Miller and Felt Prescription). Harry and his family moved to Pullman, WA, in 1962, where he owned and operated Higgins Drug for eight years. He sold Higgins drug in 1969 and moved back to Spokane with his family, where he worked as Pharmacy Manager at Pay N Save Drug, at the Sprague and Pines store, for 23 years. He finished his career at Group Health and retired in February 1996.

Harry was a member of St. Mark's Lutheran Church and was deeply devoted to his faith. He loved gardening and growing roses at home with Leslie. He was an active member of the American Rose Society for 42 years, served as President of the Spokane Rose Society, and designed the miniature rose garden at Manito Park, Rose Hill. He extended the same love and care he showed his roses to everyone he met and was known for his kindness and generosity.

Harry was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, a fierce competitor at cards and bingo, and a talented painter. He loved jigsaw puzzles, peanut butter, dill pickle, and mayonnaise sandwiches, and his beloved dogs, Wally, Mac, and Joy. On his 94th birthday, Harry was asked what his favorite time in life was. Without hesitation, he said the summers he spent camping at Priest Lake with Leslie and the kids. Harry will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

Harry is survived by his daughter, Kathleen M. Wright (Tom); son, Steven E. Rendle (Julie); daughter, Sandra L. Rendle; four grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Leslie J. Rendle; father, Harry M. Rendle; mother, Maria Eleanor Rendle; and brother, John M. Rendle.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff, caregivers, and residents at South Hill Village, who brought Harry friendship, comfort, and care in his final two years.

At his request there will be a graveside service at 12:30 p.m., on Saturday, April 5th, 2025, at Greenwood Cemetery immediately followed by a reception at St. Mark's Lutheran Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Mark's Lutheran Church, Union Gospel Mission, or The Salvation Army.