Robert Reny, 83, of Damariscotta, passed away at his home on the afternoon of July 24 surrounded by his loving family. Born on March 23, 1926 in Biddeford, he was the son of Edward and Grace (Reilly) Reny.
R.H. grew up Biddeford, attending local schools and graduating from Biddeford High School. Upon graduation he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. They immediately sent him to Dartmouth College where he completed a four-year program in just two years. Upon graduating from Dartmouth, he shipped out with the Navy, making it as far as Greenland before the war came to an end.
Upon returning to the States, he went to work for RH Whites, a department store in Boston. He later moved to Damariscotta where he worked for Senter’s Department Store, before opening his own shop across the street, the flagship of what is now 14 stores statewide.
This year, Renys Department Stores celebrate their 60th anniversary, a celebration that is extra special, as it is one of the longest surviving family owned businesses in the state.
R.H. was an icon throughout the state, receiving numerous awards and countless recognitions. His many accomplishments include: being a member, and President, of the Maine Merchants Association, as well as a Maine Merchants Association Retailer of the Year in 1981. He was on the Board of Directors, and one-time Chairman, of the Maine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, as well as being a member of the Small Business Administration National Advisory Council.
He was also on the Board of Directors for Central Maine Power Company, and was a Paul Harris Fellow in Rotary. In his “spare time,” he enjoyed growing corn and selling lobsters in Round Pond. But more than anything, he loved telling stories. Please take a moment to share a special story with the family by visiting www.StrongHancock.com or by sending it directly to them at P.O. Box 33, Damariscotta, ME 04543.
Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his brothers, John F. Reny and Paul E. Reny.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Carolyn Denny Reny of Damariscotta; three sons and daughters-in-law, John and Kathleen Reny of Round Pond, Bob and Mary Kate Reny of Bremen, and Mike Reny of Round Pond; seven grandchildren, Daniel (and wife Andrea), Christopher, Adam, Faustine, Collette, and Marlie and Tyler Reny; sister, Anne Smith of Buxton; and brother, Richard and wife Rachel of Biddeford.
Funeral mass to celebrate the life of R.H. Reny, 10 a.m., Thurs., July 30 at the St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Newcastle. He will be laid to rest in the St. Patrick’s Cemetery following the service.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Patrick’s Permanent Lay Trust, P.O. Box 33, Damariscotta, ME 04543.
Condolences or stories for the family may be expressed at www.StrongHancock.com.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, 612 Main St., Damariscotta.
