John Renna

John Renna, 66, of Hazlet, New Jersey, passed away surrounded by the love of his family on Thursday, May 23, 2024.  John was born on February 23, 1958, in Brooklyn, New York, where he grew up and met his high school sweetheart and beloved wife, Patricia.  On June 13, 1981, John and Patricia were married and began their life and family together in Brooklyn.  In 1987, they settled in Hazlet, New Jersey, where they raised their beloved children, John Jr. and Kimberly.

For many years, John worked as a brokerage consultant in the financial industry of Manhattan, New York, lastly working for Bank of America. He was a survivor of 9/11, having been in the Towers during the catastrophic event. His resilience and leadership shone brightest during the harrowing events of 9/11, where his quick thinking and courage saved the lives of his team. Despite enduring such trauma and subsequent health challenges, John's spirit remained unwaveringly positive, inspiring all who knew him.

John exuded an exceptional warmth and positivity that illuminated every room he entered. Coping with medical challenges since the age of 5, which were compounded by the events of 9/11, he remained a steadfast optimist. His character was marked by exceptional grace and he embodied kindness in its purest form. His love and pride for his family was boundless. He celebrated every occasion, no matter how small, with immense enthusiasm and treasured every moment.

A dedicated community member, John volunteered his time with Hazlet Recreation, Hazlet Planning Board, Red Bank YMCA, and Riverview Medical Center, leaving a permanent mark on those he served. His generosity was contagious, earning him the affection and admiration of all who crossed his path. In his spare time, John found great pleasure on family vacations and cruises, relishing the joy of tropical beaches and cocktails. At home, his backyard was his sanctuary, where you could often find him relaxing and enjoying the sun poolside during the summertime.

John was truly one of a kind and his passions ranged far and wide. He was an avid supporter of the Pittsburgh Steelers and the New York Yankees – rarely missing a game. His deep appreciation for the artist, Wyland, is shown in his collection of many pieces. John shared his unforgettable enthusiasm for Tommy Bahama shirts, luxury scotch, classic horror movies, unique watches, and fine jewelry with everyone he met. 

Above all else, John was a loving and devoted husband, father, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, and friend to many.  He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten. His memory of unconditional love and kindness will continue to inspire and uplift those he held dear to his heart, now and in the future. Though he may have left this world, his spirit lives on in the countless lives he touched. 

He was predeceased by his beloved parents, Anthony and Grace (Squadrito) Renna, and his brother, Augustine “Guy” Renna.  John is survived by his devoted wife of 42 years, Patricia (Reinhardt) Renna, his loving children, John Renna Jr. of Hazlet, and Kimberly (Renna) Defelice and her husband, Eric, of Doylestown, Pennsylvania, his dear brother, Anthony Renna and his wife, Sue, of Tampa, Florida, and his nephews and niece, Guy Renna and his wife, Tania, Gregory Renna and his wife, Alison, Michael Renna and his wife, Julia, Ashley (Renna) Santiago and her husband, Angelo.  John is also survived by his extremely supportive sisters-in-law, Lydia (Nangano) Renna of Howell, and Jean (Reinhardt) Fazzino and her husband, Philip of Hazlet. His dear-very close friends, Ron Sansone, and Dr. Brett Prince. His beloved dog and couch buddy, Remy.

Family and friends are invited to visit on Tuesday, May 28th, 2024, from 2:00 to 4:00 PM and 7:00 to 9:00 PM and Wednesday morning, May 29th, 2024, from 9:00 to 9:45 AM at Shore Point Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., 3269 State Highway/Route 35 North, Hazlet, New Jersey 07730.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Wednesday morning, May 29, 2024, at 10:30 AM at St. Catharine Roman Catholic Church, 108 Middletown Road, Holmdel, New Jersey 07733.  In respect of John’s wishes, he will be privately cremated.  For information, directions, or to send condolences to the family, please visit, www.shorepointfh.com.

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