1939-2026
Gloria Faye Renz, 86, passed away Sunday, July 26, 2026, at the University of Kansas Hospital, Great Bend Campus. She was born August 7, 1939, at Baker Hospital, LaCrosse, Kan., to Richard “Dick” and Elva (Cooley) Cunningham. She married Arlyn Neil Renz Sept. 7, 1957, at Hope Lutheran Church, Rush Center, Kan., by the Rev. Hugo Renz. Arlyn passed away March 4, 2018.
Gloria, a longtime resident of Albert, had spent her formative years in Rush Center, graduating from LaCrosse High School in 1957. She retired from USD 403 in 1992, after dedicating over 20 years as the secretary at the Albert Grade School. Gloria had been a faithful member of Hope Lutheran Church, later attending Peace Lutheran Church, rural Albert. Being a proud mom of three boys, she was their biggest cheerleader, never missing a single sporting event. In her spare time, she was known to bless many of her friends and family members with her notorious coconut cream and chocolate meringue pies. For many years, Gloria enjoyed the fellowship of the Albert women’s coffee group, where she was able to form life-long friendships.
Gloria is survived by two sons, Kevin Renz and wife Diane of Great Bend, Kan., and Darrin Renz and wife Cindy of Sylvia, Kan.; one daughter-in-law, Donna Renz of Lakin; five grandchildren, Megan Renz, Janelle Renz, Justin (Krista) Renz, Jaime (Chris) Whim, and Kenton (Jordan) Renz; nine great grandchildren, Dylan Wozencraft, Devin Wozencraft, Aden Rush, Lukien Rush, Marek Rush, Sawyer Renz, Zayden Renz, Emmika Renz, and Dorothy Whim.
Gloria was preceded in passing by her husband, Arlyn; son, Steve Renz; brother, Richard, and infant brother, Lowell; sisters, Marjorie and Audrey; and one great grandson, Colby.
Visitation will be Thursday, July 30, noon until 8:00 p.m. with the family present to receive friends from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m., at Bryant Funeral Home. A private family inurnment will take place Friday at Locust Hill Cemetery, Rush Center, with Kara Jecha presiding. Memorials may be given to Hope Lutheran Church or Peace Lutheran Church, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530.
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