James D. Rennie, 99, of Coldwater, passed away Sunday, Jan. 30, 2022 at his home. Visitation will be held Friday, Feb. 4, 2022 at Dutcher Funeral Home in Coldwater from 10-11 a.m., with Military Honors to be presented at 11 a.m. by the Coldwater American Legion Drill Team. Interment will take place at Ft. Custer National Cemetery in Augusta.
James was born Sept. 28, 1922 in Covington, PA to James & Melvina (Woodard) Rennie. He served in the U.S. Army from 1942 – 1946 and was a veteran of WWII.
Rennie moved to Coldwater in 1948, as a truck driver for Western Auto Transport and Commercial Carriers. After 17 years of hauling cars, James established Reliable Garage as owner and operator until his retirement in 1985.
James was a member of the American Legion and the VFW, both in Pennsylvania, and the Coldwater Eagles. He was an avid Detroit Tigers fan and a skilled craftsman who enjoyed making wooden toys and yard ornaments and fishing. He also enjoyed working crossword puzzles to keep his mind sharp.
James is survived by his children, Mark (Judy Zahn) Rennie of Hartford, Donna (Brent) Bruning of Bronson, Jeanette Mowatt of Phoenix, AZ, Eldon (Cherie) Cribbs of Santa Maria, CA; grandchildren, Michael (Maggie) Rennie, Brandi (Robbie) Harting, Jennifer (Josh) Burleson, John (Michelle) Massey, Michelle (Jason) Holbrook, Cameron Mowatt, Matt (Chrissy) Mowatt, Aaron (Haley) Cribbs, Chelsea (Matt) Maloney; many great-grandchildren; a great-great-grandchild; nephew Robert (Elise) Dekoschak and special friends Gary and Paddie Nettleman.
He was preceded in death by his longtime companion Laveta Bell, one sister and one brother.
Memorials may be directed to the Coldwater American Legion or the Branch Co. Humane Society. Visit www.dutcherfh.com.