Robin Lee Renninger

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Robin Lee Renninger, 77, of Maple Shade, New Jersey, on Wednesday, February 5, 2025. Robin, or "Rob," leaves behind his devoted wife of 54 years, Sandra Heimbach Renninger, who stood by his side through every moment of his hard fought battle with pancreatic cancer. Born on September 15, 1947, and raised in Pennsburg, Pennsylvania, Rob was the son of the late Millard and Betty (Snyder) Renninger. He graduated from Upper Perkiomen High School in 1965, where he met the love of his life, Sandra. As teenagers, they both played the tenor saxophone in the marching band, and it was there that their love story began. Rob went on to pursue his dreams of becoming a band director by continuing his studies at Wilkes College, and graduated in 1970, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education. In 1970, duty to his country called, and he was drafted into the Army. He bravely served from 1971-1972 in Vietnam and was a proud member of the United States Army Band. After returning home, Rob and Sandy moved to Maple Shade, NJ. His career started in 1972 at Haddon Heights High School, in Haddon Heights, NJ, where he taught music in the classroom, and saw his dream fulfilled as the high school marching band director. Under Mr. Renn's direction, the marching band went on to become a nationally renowned, multi-award-winning program, creating incredible color guards such as High Voltage, Synergy, and Short Circuit, as well as an exceptional Indoor Percussion Unit. His students adored him, not only for his unwavering dedication but for his genuine care and his ability to be a guiding, fatherly figure to so many. Renn's love for music shaped the lives of all who had the privilege of working with him. Outside of music, Rob had many passions that filled his life with joy. From a young age, he was an avid fan of American Flyer trains, amassing a treasured collection over the years. For 30 years, he ran a successful eBay business, sharing some of his most prized pieces with fellow collectors. Rob was also an enthusiastic model slot car racer, often found at Frogg Ocean Speedway on Friday nights, racing his meticulously crafted slot car. His 1973 Nova SS and 1948 Pink Plymouth were also among his cherished possessions, and he loved attending classic car shows. Rob's enthusiasm extended to his beloved Philadelphia Eagles, his family's yearly beach trips, the Wildwood Boardwalk, his sweet dogs, Emmy and Darcy, and favorite pastimes like exploring the Columbus Flea Market, watching Svengoolie, enjoying M*A*S*H, telling stories, and listening to big band music, especially Maynard Ferguson. Rob will forever be remembered for his larger-than-life personality and the way he touched the lives of everyone around him. He leaves behind his loving wife, Sandra, their three daughters Kimberly, Tamera, and Jodi, sons-in-law Edward and Douglas, and eight grandchildren: Maya, Oscar, Chase, Clyde, August, Veda, Oliver, and Penelope. He is also survived by his brother-in-law Mark Heimbach and his wife Sally, as well as his nephews, Matthew and Stephen. We would like to express our deepest gratitude to Debbie Heller and family, the staff of the Haddon Heights Marching Units, the band alumni, the band auxiliary, and the entire Haddon Heights school and community for the unwavering support and love they have shown over the years. Although Rob is no longer with us, his legacy and impact will remain in our hearts. Please join us in a Celebration of Life on Saturday, February 15, 2025, 2pm, in the Haddon Heights High School Gymnasium. 301 2nd Avenue Haddon Heights, NJ 08035. In lieu of flowers, the family would be honored if you donated to the Haddon Heights High School Band Auxiliary or Samaritan Hospice.