Theodore Renkas

Ted Renkas, 86, passed away peacefully on December 15, 2025 at his home in Janesville, WI.

Ted was born on September 15, 1939, to Anna and Stanley Renkas and grew up in Goodman, Wisconsin. Following high school, he joined the United States Army, serving in the Signal Corps, where he was stationed in Japan and he reached Expert status with M1 and M14 rifles. After receiving an honorable discharge, he began his career at Beloit Corporation. On October 18, 1969, he married Sue Prueher, the love of his life. The couple settled in Janesville to raise their family, and Ted later worked at Burdick Corporation in Milton for many years before retiring in 2001.

Ted was a gifted musician. In his younger years, he played trumpet in polka bands and would also step in for absent players, quickly picking up other brass instruments as well as the saxophone. He also had a beautiful voice and sang for over 50 years in the church choir of St. Mary’s Church. He was often recruited by his family and friends to sing, perform, and entertain at family and church gatherings, and he gladly took part. In his younger years, he played many sports including baseball and basketball, and continued to enjoy bowling and golf leagues and playing cards with his friends throughout his life. He loved his family deeply and being Dad and G’pa was the greatest honor of his life. He will be dearly missed by family and friends.

Ted is lovingly remembered by his wife, Sue Renkas; his daughter, Wendy (Renkas) Sader, and her husband, Corey; his son, Brian Renkas, and his wife, Michelle; and his grandchildren, Samantha, Drew, Felicity, Levi, and Adelaide.

Ted was preceded in death by his parents, Stanley and Anna Renkas; his brother, Matthew Renkas; and his sister, Betty Wywial.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at NATIVITY OF MARY CHURCH, 313 E. Wall St., Janesville, from 10:00–11:30 a.m., followed by a Celebration of Life at 11:30 a.m. Burial and military honors by Kienow-Hilt V.F.W. Post # 1621 will take place at Mt. Olivet Cemetery at 12:45 p.m., followed by a light lunch at the church. Funeral arrangements are being handled by HENKE-CLARSON FUNERAL HOME. Online condolences may be sent to www.henkeclarson.com.