Renard Daniel "Renny" Gruner, Jr.

Gruner, Renard Daniel “Renny” Jr. passed away on Friday, August 28, 2026. Beloved husband of 56 years to Judith Ann Gruner (nee Lammering); dear father of Jennifer (Shawn) Nevins, and Alisa (Daniel) Cuneo; dear brother of Marguerite "Margie" Williams; dear grandfather of Lauren and Aidan Nevins; dear brother-in-law, uncle, cousin, and friend to many.

Renard was born on January 10, 1943 to Renard "Bud" Gruner and Marguerite Gruner (nee Hense). He grew up in the Dogtown and Rock Hill neighborhoods of St Louis and attended St. James and St. Mary Magdalen grade schools before graduating from Christian Brothers High School (C.B.C.) in 1961.

In 1963, Renard joined the United States Navy, where he proudly served his country until 1967. He attended Navy Class A School, where he trained as a Cryptographic Machine Operator, working with equipment used for secure military communications and was stationed in Guam and Kamiseya, Japan.

Following his military service, he began his career with the Southwestern Freight Bureau, where he worked until 1982. He then began a new chapter in his career with the U.S. Postal Service in St. Charles, Missouri, where he remained until his retirement in 2007.

During his years with the Postal Service, Renard was actively involved with the A.P.W.U. Local 4853, serving in several leadership roles, including secretary, treasurer, president, and later secretary-treasurer. His dedication continued into retirement, when he served as president of the St. Charles Retiree Chapter and as secretary-treasurer of the Missouri State Retiree Chapter.

Throughout his life, Renard enjoyed staying active and spending time with the people he cared about. He loved bowling, visiting the casinos, and traveling, with cruises being a particular favorite. A devoted husband, father and grandfather, Renard was incredibly proud of his children and grandchildren and could often be found cheering them on at their sporting events.

Renard will be remembered for his wit, patience, friendly nature, and unwavering loyalty to his family and many friends. He truly enjoyed the company of others, whether he was going out, spending time with friends and family, or cheering on his beloved St. Louis Blues. And anyone who knew Renard knew he had a sweet tooth, there was always room for dessert.

He was deeply loved and will be forever remembered and greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

If so desired, memorials may be made in Renard's name to the Wounded Warrior Project.