Rea Lane Mennenga

Rea was born on October 22, 1950, in Belle Fourche, South Dakota, to parents Harold Mills Haws and Oral Jean Rogers Haws and raised in Weaverville, California. She is survived by her husband, Patrick Mennenga, children Monica Porter (James), Matthew Mennenga, and Marcus Mennenga (Jocelyn); her grandchildren Logan, Jordan, Madison, Kallie, Kamryn, and Dalton; and her siblings Margo Posenjak, Harold Haws, Shannon Nugent, and Trula Whitaker.

Rea attended Trinity High School and then Corbin University, where she met the love of her life - Patrick. In 1971, they were married and one year later moved to Ft. Lauderdale, Florida to begin their teaching careers in Christian education. After three years, they relocated to Orlando, Florida to continue their ministry at Pine Hills Christian Academy. During their almost 52 years of marriage, they shared many amazing adventures with one of their most significant being the founding of The Master’s Academy in 1986. In 1998, Rea and Pat followed the Lord’s lead to Clearwater, Florida. Rea extended her teaching and coaching career at Skycrest Christian School and later at Northbay Christian Academy. With a passion for Christian education, Rea taught and coached cheerleading for 40+ years sharing her love for Christ with her students. Rea also worked in real estate for over 30 years, and received multiple recognitions as one of the top agents with Keller Williams in Palm Harbor, Florida. During their 24 years in Clearwater, Rea and Pat taught Bible classes, home groups, and served in the children’s ministry at Clearwater Community Church.

Rea’s six grandchildren meant the world to her. From hosting Grandpa & Grammy Camp every summer to camping trips for the holidays, Rea never skipped a beat in finding opportunities to be with her grandchildren. They never doubted her love and always knew she was constantly praying for them.

Rea lived her life for Jesus and wanted others to know that having a relationship with Him is the most important relationship you will ever have. She never stopped praising His name, even during her struggles with ALS that began in the fall of 2018. Even though this disease took away her ability to speak and function independently, it didn’t stop her from reflecting the love of Jesus and recognizing how God continued to bless her life. She is now healed from her disease and rejoicing in the presence of her Savior. While those of us left behind grieve the loss of a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, teacher, coach and friend, we look forward to being reunited again.

A celebration of life service will be held Saturday, June 10, 2023 at 1:30 pm at The Master’s Academy Performing Arts Center, Oviedo, Florida. (1500 Lukas Lane, Oviedo, Fl 32765)

"Our mom would love for those attending her service on Saturday, to come dressed in bright colors to honor her day of celebration."

Thank you,

The family requests those who wish to express sympathy, in lieu of flowers, consider making a donation in honor of Rea Mennenga towards a scholarship fund to benefit graduates from The Master’s Academy pursuing a bachelor’s degree in education.

Donations can be made to the scholarship fund at The Master's Academy by clicking here: https://themastersacademy.factsmgtadmin.com/give/

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.woodlawnfuneralhomegotha.com for the Mennenga family.