Thrasilla “Tressie” Emiliana Renne, 100, of Big Rapids, went to be with her Lord on Tuesday, October 13, 2026.

She was born on August 28, 1926, in Cadillac, Michigan, the daughter of Bernard and Frances (Schorr) Leyanna. In 1947, she married the love of her life, John Renne, and together they built a beautiful family and shared many years of love and memories.

Throughout her working years, Tressie was employed at Big Rapids Hospital, Big Rapids Tube, and St. Vincent de Paul, where she served as manager for 22 years. Her dedication to serving others extended far beyond her work, as her faith and her church were central to her life.

Tressie joined Cursillo, a Catholic organization, in 1985. She faithfully served as a Steven Minister for more than five years, a minister of Holy Communion, and she and John took Holy Communion to homebound members of the church, sharing comfort and companionship with those who could not attend Mass. Tressie lovingly prepared the altar for Sunday and weekday Masses and did the readings on weekdays for many years. Her devotion to her faith was evident in the many ways she gave of herself to her church and community.

She found joy in many simple pleasures, including making rosaries, bowling, golfing, sewing, crocheting, knitting, cross-stitching, completing puzzles, and gardening. She enjoyed keeping her hands busy and creating things for others, always finding ways to share her time and talents with those around her.

Above all, Tressie treasured her family. She leaves behind a remarkable legacy of love spanning five generations, including 11 children, 31 grandchildren, 67 great-grandchildren, and 12 great-great-grandchildren. Her life was a testament to the love she gave so freely and the family she and John built together.

Tressie is survived by her children: Joseph Renne, Edward (Barb) Renne, Marlene Renne, Irene (Gary) Clementshaw, Paul (Shelly) Renne, Mark (Susan) Renne, Bernard (Karen) Renne, Leo Renne, Mary (Mark) McNeilly, Geralyn Renne, and Therese (Tom) O’Brien; 31 grandchildren; 67 great-grandchildren; 12 great-great-grandchildren, with four more on the way; her sister, Ursula Lennon; and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, John; two sisters, Emiliana Barnes and Petronella Rickaby; two grandsons, Joseph Jr. Renne and Eli Clementshaw; and daughter-in-law, Darlene Renne.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Big Rapids, with Father Jegar Fickel as celebrant. Tressie’s family will greet friends on Wednesday, October 21, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the church, with a rosary service at 5:30 p.m. Visitation will also be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday before the Mass. Tressie will be laid to rest beside John at Mt. Carmel Cemetery in Big Rapids. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Tressie’s name may be made to St. Mary-St. Paul Ministries in Big Rapids.

Care and arrangements are entrusted to Mohnke Janowicz Funeral Home in Big Rapids.