Susan Elizabeth Renna

Susan was born December 22, 1949 in Louisville, Kentucky to Dr. Albert Daniel Mercker and Mary Genevieve Hayes Mercker. As a child, she lived on military bases both domestically and abroad before her family finally settled in Fresno in 1960. Susan graduated from Fresno High School in 1968 and pursued a degree in Speech Therapy at CSU Fresno before marrying Gerald F. Renna on August 5, 1972.

Susan's compassion for others and helpful nature was reflected in her 25 years of volunteer service to USA Swimming as both a meet official and meet director at the local, regional and national levels. During this time she also served as a mentor to countless swimmers, coaches and officials at high schools and swim clubs throughout Central California. As a starter, Susan's command of "Swimmers take your mark" epitomized her desire to help others in their preparation to confront life's challenges both in and out of the swimming pool.

Susan was also an active member of Holy Spirit Catholic Church volunteering her time to assist at many church-sponsored events. She was involved in several ministries within the Holy Spirit community, including service as a Eucharistic minister.

Susan was a kind, creative, inquisitive and adventurous spirit with a passion for reading, travel, and golf. She was a gifted gardener and quilter with an eye for colors, patterns, and artistic designs.

Above all else, Susan treasured her family, serving in her most exceptional roles as both a loving wife and mother.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Susan is survived in death by her husband, Gerald; her two sons Dr. Brian F. and his wife Robiana of Philadelphia, Pa. and Robert D. and his wife Jeta of Idaho Falls, ID; seven grandchildren, and her sisters Martha Robinson of Prescott, Az. and Margaret Markham of Las Vegas, Nv.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Spirit Catholic Church on Wednesday, May 15, 2013 at 10:00 a.m. A private interment will be held.

In lieu of flowers, friends and family are encouraged to make a donation to Hinds Hospice or the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.