Allan Renninger

Kim Allan Renninger passed away peacefully on May 1, 2024 at the age of 75 with family members by his side. After being diagnosed with Parkinson’s and dementia in 2012, his body and mind steadily declined. His death came unexpectedly following a massive stroke the weekend before his passing.

Allan was born on September 18, 1948, to William and Norma (Wagner) Renninger in Lewistown, PA. Although he was an only child, his love of family was nurtured by his grandparents and an aunt and uncle who owned a farm outside of town. He often reminisced about hanging out with his cousins and fishing there.

During childhood, Allan found his way to music. He began by learning the accordion at the age of 8. He soon switched to the organ and was so gifted at it; he was hired as a church organist at the age of 14. His proclivity towards music led him to attend Messiah University where he earned a degree in music education in 1970. Later, he earned a Master's degree from Temple University in theory and composition. His talent was so grand he could have been a concert organist, but since the touring demands would have taken him away from home, he chose the route of education and church service.

While at Messiah University, Allan met the love of his life, Susan Cleck. At a county chorus event in high school, she remembers watching him accompany and thinking she wanted to marry a man like him who would surround her life with music. Little did she know that God’s plan was for her to marry him, not just a man like him. Allan and Sue wed on May 30, 1970. Deep devotion to Christ and one another became the cornerstones of their marriage. Laughter was the trademark of their interactions. Even in the years of Allan’s decline, their humor held them close and allowed them to bravely face the challenges in front of them. For years, Sue acted as his caretaker to keep him at home as long as possible and continued to be a loving presence until the very end.

Through a beautiful blend of biology and adoption, they added six children to their family. They are Anne (Waley) Goodbee-Lee of Duluth, GA; David Renninger (deceased); Matthew (Julie)Renninger of Carlisle, PA; Heather (Don) Logan of Fort Mill, SC; Nicolas (Pamala) Renninger of Carlisle, PA; and Michael (April) Renninger of Sparrows Point, MD. As a dad, Allan was known for his strength and steadiness as well as his constant movement working around the house and in the yard. His gentle demeanor brought a sense of calm to the family, but his kids fondly talk of watching out for his boiling point.

Allan taught music for 34 years with Big Spring School District. He also served for over 20 years as the music director at The Meeting House (previously called Carlisle Brethren in Christ Church). During his time with that congregation, he created a handbell choir and an orchestra. He also led adult and youth choirs. He held a myriad of other music related positions at other churches during his lifetime, including being the organist for Carlisle’s yearly production of Handel’s Messiah. Additionally, he taught piano and organ through private lessons to many students, including his own children and grandchildren. While he enjoyed teaching and leading music endeavors at church, he was also a flower gardener at heart. He worked many summers at a local nursery. His flower gardens were legendary, a little glimpse of heaven in his own yard.

Everything he touched became a symphony of enviable beauty. Of the roles he held, one of his most favored was “Grandpa” to his 16 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild. He took an active role in each of their lives, sitting countless hours on the floor with them playing everything from Barbies to Matchbox cars and visiting them across many miles. They would dress him up, boss him around, beg him to read books, and crawl all over him. As they grew up, he cheered them on from the sidelines of their sporting events, attended their recitals, baked his famous chocolate chip cookies with them, and held their hands while jumping in waves at the ocean. The most enduring trait he will be remembered for is his frequent and infectious laughter.

Allan had a profound impact on his family, friends, and anyone blessed to be around him. He leaves behind a huge hole and a notable legacy which his family aims to honor by walking closely to Christ and replicating other traits and values of Allan in their own lives.

Family and friends are welcome to attend a memorial service which will be held at The Meeting House in Carlisle on Saturday, May 11 at 11:00am following a visitation from 9:00 - 10:45am. Light refreshments will be served afterwards.

Sue wishes to express gratitude to the devoted family and friends who supported her and Allan as well as to the numerous staff members of Legend at Silver Creek, Mechanicsburg Area Senior Center, UPMC West Shore, and Dr. William Phelan for their roles in his care.

In place of flowers, the family requests that you make a donation in Allan’s memory Dementia Society Inc. (https://www.dementiasociety.org/). These funds will be used to support patients and caregivers impacted by dementia.