Russell “R.J.” Renicker, 89, of Rossville, passed away, Monday, October 13, 2026, at his home surrounded by his family. He was born August 20, 1937, in North Manchester, to Eldo and Martha (Skiles) Renicker. He married Marilyn Welk in July 1, 1962, and she survives.
R.J. was a graduate of North Manchester High School. He served in the United States Army during the Cuban Missile Crisis. He was a jack of all trades, welding, working at Kirby Risk, Rossville Lumber Yard, and as a custodian for the Rossville School Corporation for many years. He was a faithful member of the Middle Fork Old German Baptist Church. RJ enjoyed being outdoors and especially enjoyed gardening, hiking, bird watching. He was a man that enjoyed life and saw the positive things in life. He was known for his encouraging attitude and uplifting spirit. R.J. also had a giving heart and was glad to help others when he could. His caring and cheerful personality will be missed by those that knew him.
Along with his wife of 64 years, R.J. is survived by his daughter, Audra Renee (Gary) Hinkle; son, Eric (Mona Zarina) Renicker; grandchildren, Tabitha (Alex) Boyd, Havilah (Kirby) Hess, Micah Hinkle, Emily Renicker and Ethan Renicker; and step-grandchildren, Taylor and Tyler Logue; and step great grandchild, Zanika Logue.
He was preceded in passing by his parents; brothers, Lester, Chester, Alfred, and Dallas Renicker; and infant sisters, Phoebe and Alma Renicker.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at Middle Fork Old German Baptist Brethren Church from 9am-12pm. Funeral service will be held at 1:30pm, Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at the Church. Burial will follow at Middle Fork Old German Baptist Brethren Cemetery. Day & Genda Funeral Home ~ Bodine Chapel in Rossville is assisting with the arrangements. Messages of condolences may be left at www.dayandgenda.com.