Phyllis Colleen Renze

Phyllis Colleen (aka: Connie) Renze passed away peacefully in her sleep on August 2, 2026, at the remarkable age of 99, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering faith, enduring love, and deep devotion to her family.

Phyllis was the beloved wife of the late Bonaventure "Ben" Renze, with whom she shared 56 wonderful years of marriage, before his passing on April 10, 2007. Together they built a beautiful life centered on family, faith and community. She was the loving mother of Nicholas (Shirley) Renze, Victoria (James) Kaltz, B. Maurice (Michelle) Renze, the late Christina Ramirez, Barry (Karen) Renze, Maria (Robert) Bruce, and Lisa (Timothy) Insley. She was the cherished grandmother of 20 and was further blessed with many, many great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense pride and joy.

Born in Scottsdale, Pennsylvania, on June 17, 1927, Phyllis was the beloved daughter of the late Samuel and Helen Wingard. She was one of eight children and remained close to her family throughout her life. She is survived by her siblings, Samuel Wingard and Elaine Collins.

As a young woman, Phyllis met the love of her life while working at the Renze Cigar Factory in Connellessville, PA, where she skillfully rolled cigars by hand. Their romance blossomed into a lifelong partnership, and they were married on December 26, 1950. Soon afterward, they began raising the family that would become the center of Phyllis' world.

While Ben proudly served his country during the Korean War, Phyllis and their young children lived close to her in-laws. During that time, she learned the treasured traditions of homemade Italian cooking, recipes and techniques she lovingly carried with her for the rest of her life. Her kitchen became a gathering place where family and friends were always welcomed with a delicious dessert, warm meal, and an even warmer heart.

Phyllis devoted herself to raising her children as a loving homemaker, creating a home filled with compassion, laughter, and countless cherished memories. Later, she served as an administrative assistant at St. Sylvester Catholic Church in Warren, Michigan, where her dedication, kindness, and strong faith touched many lives. She also served for many years working the election polls with Ben.

A woman of simple pleasures and quiet joys, Phyllis loved reading and word searches. Her passion was being the best pen-pal to many. She loved writing cards and letters to friends and family, but she truly loved receiving a personal letter in return. She also enjoyed watching daytime television programs and Hallmark movies, always appreciating a good story with a heartfelt ending.

One of her favorite places was sitting in her rocking chair beneath her beloved "princess tent" on the back deck where she spent countless peaceful afternoons surrounded by blooming flowers and the songs of visiting birds. It was there that she found comfort in God's creation and enjoyed the beauty of each passing season.

Family meant everything to Phyllis. She treasured every opportunity to travel and spend time with loved ones who lived out of town, creating memories that would last for generations. Above all else, her faith in God and her Catholic beliefs guided every aspect of her life. She lived with humility, grace, and a servant's heart, offering love, encouragement, and prayers to all who knew her.

To live for 99 years is to witness nearly a century of history, but more importantly, it is to leave behind generations shaped by love. Phyllis' greatest accomplishment was not measured in years, but in the family she nurtured, the faith she exemplified, and the countless lives she touched through her gentle spirit. Her legacy will continue through her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who were blessed to know her.

Visitation will take place on Friday, August 7, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., at D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road, Warren, Michigan 48093.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, August 8, 2026, with In State beginning at 10:00 a.m. until the Mass at 10:30 a.m., at St. Faustina Catholic Church, 14025 Twelve Mile Road, Warren, Michigan 48088.

Though her earthly journey has come to an end, the love, wisdom, and faith that Phyllis shared throughout her extraordinary 99 years will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved her.

Please share your memories of Phyllis below.