She was born in Danzig, Germany on May 22, 1941.
Renate attended school in Germany before coming stateside with her husband Ed, upon his leaving the U.S. Army in 1962.
She was married to Edward Lee Bigelow on July 17, 1961.
Renate was a devoted wife, homemaker, loving mother and "Mema" with a passion for friends, family and worldwide travels. She learned English quickly with help from her husband and by watching American soap operas and game shows. A talented cheerleader and gymnast growing up, Renate in later life used those talents to often dance the night away with her husband.
She was proceeded in passing by her youngest son Brian and husband Edward Lee.
Renate is survived by her son; Michael of McAllen, TX, daughter; Erika of Martindale, TX, granddaughters; Megan Bigelow of Newport News, Virginia, Hannah Bigelow of McAllen, TX, grandson; Justin, wife Brooke Wood of Houston, TX, great-grandson; Tristan Bigelow of McAllen, TX, sister; Ingrid Bannon of Lafayette, Indiana, daughter-in-law; Kathy Bigelow, son-in-law; Roger Wood, along with numerous friends, relatives and other loved ones.
A celebration of life for Renate will be held Friday, May 3, 2019 at 2:00 PM at Forest Park The Woodlands Funeral Home, 18000 Interstate 45 S, The Woodlands, TX 77384. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.forestparkthewoodlands.com for the Bigelow and Wood family.