Larry Gene Renke

RENKE, Larry Gene, 66, of Longmont, died October 21, 2009 at Longmont United Hospital.Larry was born January 8, 1943 in Greeley, CO, the son of Ralph Herbert andMildred Ruth (Durr) Renke. Larry attended and graduated from Valley High School in LaSalle, Colorado where he was active on the baseball team. While playing for his team won 3 state championships. He also captured the eye of the scouts for the Philadelphia Phillies, signing a minor league contract and playing for a year on a farm club in Alabama.Larry married Sharon Nofts on July 8, 1967 in Greeley.Upon returning to Colorado, he went to work for IBM, here in Longmont. He would spend 30 years with them in the software planning and development.Larry's father introduced him to fly fishing at a young age. This is an avocation he followed and pursued with zest his entire life. He also developed a skill for tying flies and acted as a fishing guide for a local angler shop. He hunted for many years, both fowl and big game. He developed a love for bow hunting, as well. He enjoyed many other outdoor activities, playing golf and participating in leagues for years. After his heart attack, he took up both riding his bicycle and hiking to keep in shape and conditioning. A Denver Bronco season ticket holder for many years, he was a faithful follower, attending both Super Bowl victories.Preceding him in death were his parents and his wife.Surviving are his daughters; Cher Renke (John VanHoeke) of Friday Harbor, Washington, and Jamie (Darren) Vogts of Lakewood; lifelong friend and companion Mary Eckhardt of Denver; a brother Herb (Sharon) Renke of Windsor; two sisters Linda Gibson of LaSalle and Sue Morris of Greeley; and two grandchildren Aiden and Henry Vogts. Numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives and all his fishing and hunting buddies further survive him.Cremation has been entrusted to Howe Mortuary and Cremation Service in Longmont.Memorial services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, October 26 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church with Pastor Mark Peterson officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Society, 6857 Paiute Ave.Niwot, CO 80503 or Longmont United Hospital Foundation, 1380 Tulip St., Ste. ALongmont, CO 80501.