Obituary of Robert Renna

Robert Douglas Renna, aged 75, passed away suddenly on Sunday, July 14, 2024, in Huntington Beach, California. Robert, affectionately known as Bob, lived a life marked by humor, wisdom, and an unwavering commitment to his loved ones and community. Bob’s Catholic faith was important to him, and he took comfort in the traditions and rituals of the church. Bob was a caring son, brother, brother-in- law, uncle, great uncle, and friend. Even at a young age, Bob possessed characteristics of an “old soul,” mature, thoughtful, and understanding. He will be remembered for his warm spirit, unwavering dedication to his family, friends, and his lasting impact on all who knew him. Born in Flushing, New York on May 24, 1949, to Ernest and Phyllis Renna. Bob’s early years were spent in the Corona neighborhood of Queens, New York and Madison Park, New Jersey before his family moved to the Village of Williston Park in Nassau County, New York. After graduating from Herricks High School in 1966, Bob first studied at St. Joseph’s Seminary in Princeton, New Jersey, earned his Associate’s Degree from Niagara University in 1971, his Bachelor’s Degree in English and Education from St. John’s University in 1972, and went on to study acting and directing at the University of Georgia. Bob began working with the television and motion picture industries while living in Atlanta, Georgia, working on various television shows and the movies, including, In the Heat of the Night, My Cousin Vinny and Pet Sematary II. He relocated to Los Angeles, California in the mid 90’s where he continued to work in various roles including as a Prop Master, Set Decorator and Draper for the next 25 years. Bob has a long list of films and television shows he worked on in career spanning nearly 40 years and leaves behind an impressive legacy including such films as Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, Beverly Hill Cop, Ted 2, Forgetting Sarah Marshall, Spiderman, Gone Girl, and Rock of Ages. A close longtime friend and colleague remembered him fondly, with one reflection, “Bob was kind, funny, respectful to everyone and great to be around and that Bob was always happy to make others happy.” Another colleague shared, “He was truly a special person no one worked harder with more grace and passion put in their artistry and craftmanship than Bob Renna.” Bob was a patron and supporter of the arts. He loved theatre, the symphony, and museums. He also enjoyed classic movies, and would almost always have Turner Classic Movies playing. In retirement, Bob loved gardening, traveling, and entertaining. He was the ultimate host and enjoyed entertaining friends and family. Bob loved feeding his guests one or more of his signature dishes or desserts prepared from old family recipes handed down from his Grandma Millie and Aunt Marie. He was very excited about the 2028 Olympics being held in Los Angeles and to be able to host family and friends at his house during it. Bob is preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Phyllis Renna and his brother, Dennis Renna. He is survived by his brothers Gary Renna and his wife Trudy; Wayne Renna; niece Erin Renna, nephews Jesse Renna and his wife Stephanie, Travis Renna and his wife Lissy, and Jack Renna, great nieces Emmy and Paige Renna; many cousins, and a host of friends. He was also a beloved brother, and cherished uncle to his niece and nephews. Bob will be profoundly missed but his spirit will continue to guide and inspire all who were blessed to know him. Visitation will be held on August 22, 2024, from 5pm to 8pm at Weigand Brothers Funeral Home in Williston Park, New York. Followed by interment on Friday, August 23, 2024 at 11:30am at Mount Saint Mary’s Cemetery in Flushing, New York. If desired, family and friends may make a meaningful impact in Bob’s honor by making a contribution in his memory to SavingLittle Strays, 9839 Sunland Blvd., Shadow Hills, CA 91040, https://www.savinglittlestraysrescue.com/donate.html, or the City of Los Angeles Animal Shelter, East Valley, https://www.laanimalservices.com/waystodonate.