Herbert E. Renner Sr.

Herbert E. “Herb” Renner Sr., age 89, of Janesville, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on April 3, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on January 15, 1937, in Richmond, Illinois, to Herman F. and Mabel M.. (Erckfritz) Renner.

On February 4, 1961, Herb married the love of his life, Beverly M. Sherman. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and a deep passion for farming. Together they raised two children, Phyllis A. Renner and Herbert E. Renner Jr.

Herb began his working years at the Grays Lake Feed Mill while Bev worked at Autolite, but their true calling was farming. In 1966, they began with just five cows and a German Shepherd dog named King. Soon after moving to Woodstock, Illinois, they grew their herd to 45 cows and raised groups of up to 800 pigs, with their loyal German Shepherd, King, always by their side. Among their many farming memories were their his-and-hers 1850 Oliver tractors—though in time, Bev’s was sold to make way for a Case tractor. Their hard work and dedication were recognized in 1970–1971 when they received DHIA awards for the highest butterfat count and second-highest milk production in the State of Illinois.

In 1971, Herb and Bev moved to Janesville to purchase their own farm, where they continued to raise Holstein cows with King still by their side and remained active in the DHIA program. They later earned recognition for shipping over one ton of milk per day. They especially enjoyed attending the Elkhorn Classics, where choosing cattle often turned into friendly debates—each bringing their own opinion before agreeing on just the right cow, and sometimes both leaving with a cow.

Herb found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved watching John Wayne movies and listening to country music. He and Bev made many cherished trips to Nashville, Tennessee, to attend the Grand Ole Opry, as well as to Branson, Missouri, to see their favorite performers. They also treasured time spent “up north” with friends, enjoying music gatherings, or “jams,” filled with laughter and country tunes.

Herb is survived by his devoted wife, Beverly Renner; his daughter, Phyllis A. Renner; his son, Herbert E. Renner Jr. (Shirley); his grandchildren, John Treuthardt Jr. (Kelli) and Amanda Thompson (Adam Rinnman); and his great-grandchildren, Presley Treuthardt, Cashton “Jake” Treuthardt, and Ellie Mae "Angel" Thompson. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Art Erckfritz; and his sisters, Eddie Marvin and Marcella Groskinski.

Herb was a farmer at heart and remained one throughout his life. He will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his love of family, and his warm expression of gratitude—often shared with a simple “Dankeschön" (German for thank you).

Visitation will be held from 10:30 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at HENKE-CLARSON FUNERAL HOME, 1010 N. Wright Road in Janesville, with funeral services to follow at 12:00 p.m. Rev. James Johnson will officiate. Burial will take place at Emerald Grove Cemetery, with a final drive past the family farm following the funeral service. Family and friends are invited to a luncheon and time of fellowship following the burial at Emerald Grove Congregational United Church of Christ.