Ronald L. Rehner

Mwalimu Ronald L. Rehner Sr. left those he touched so deeply on April 22, 2018 at age 81. Ron graduated from EFA in 1954, earned his BA from the College of Wooster, and his MA from the University of Rochester. Ron was born in Olean, NY. He cared deeply for his family. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, teacher, and volunteer. Ron was predeceased by his parents, Al and Kate Rehner and loving wife of over 50 years, Nancy.He is survived by son, Ron Jr. (with Christy Pierce),(granddaughters, Suzanna and Eric Dodge and Caitlin); daughter, Michelle and Josh Giacchino, (grandsons, Xavier, Vincent, and Tyler); as well as Senna, Nicholson, Beattie, Meyers, and Rehner families. Ron taught at East High School, Rochester and Oak Hills, Cincinatti, Ohio before coming to Elmira.In the beginning of his teaching career at Thomas Edison High School, Ron took an opportunity to teach geography at Mawenzi Secondary School in Moshi, Tanzania.Ever concerned with current affairs, Ron brought real world issues to his classroom. His time in Africa was very special to him, resulting in friendships that continued throughout his life. He returned to Thomas Edison to teach history. He remembered and recognized his students' achievements long after their school year with him ended. After retiring from teaching, he worked at RSVP. He enjoyed camping, whether it was with Boy Scout Troop 101 or with family. Hiking and cooking were his specialties. He loved his garden which gave him much knowledge to share while working in the garden department at Chase Pitkin. He was always happy to give an extensive tour of his garden to all who visited.He also enjoyed going to concerts and supporting local theater. Ron always gave his all to whatever he set out to do, never compromising or wavering. His commitment to serve his community was such an important part of his life. Serving as legislative chair of AARP Chap. 276, he enjoyed visiting the local politicians with his entourage of red shirts. Working to improve the lives of his community, especially senior citizens, Ron also volunteered his time at Senior Notebook, Department of Aging Advocacy Council, Age Friendly Coalition, Creating Healthy Schools and Communities, Poverty Coalition, Food Bank of the Southern Tier, Health Priorities Squared, and First Presbyterian Church. No matter whom he met or where he went, he always had a smile to give and welcomed all. The family would like to thank those who gave respectful and gracious care to Ron during his illness. We would also like to thank all his family and friends for your friendship and love that you gave Ron over the years and especially in the last days of his life. He would say thank you to all and keep up the great work! A celebration of Ron's life will be held on Saturday, June 2, 2018 at 11am at First Presbyterian Church, 1054 W. Clinton St., Elmira, NY. No flowers please. A gift of canned food may be brought to the celebration to benefit the North Presbyterian Church Food Pantry. Memorials may be given to the Food Bank of the Southern Tier or charity of one's choice.