November 29, 2022. Word reached our club today that Shirley Rennie has passed away. Shirley was the wife of the late Dr. Clare Rennie, a beloved member and past president of our club (2005-2006), and initiator of Guelph's Rotary Forest project. Shirley was the love of Clare's life, and also much respected and loved in our club. We send our condolences to the family.
To those who might not have known Clare Rennie in person, and his remarkable contributions to the world, do read this wonderful tribute written by Susan Farrelly here.
Past-president Paul Taylor (2014-2015) and his wife Cindy felt a special closeness to the Rennies. It turned out that Shirley had grown up in the same neighbourhood as Paul's grandfather. Shirley was able to share special stories about Paul's grandfather who had been the Mayor of Guelph along the way, providing Paul with valuable family history about the man he had never met. On hearing of Shirley's passing, Paul added, "Shirley was one of the sweetest people I ever met. Her sense of humour, smiles and kindness to all, was her trademark. Clare and Shirley, in my opinion were the perfect couple. When Clare first met Shirley, I know why he fell in love with her. Her children and grandchildren all loved her. She will be missed by everyone who ever had a chance to share a tea, or something a little stronger with her. She took such great care of Clare and I am sure Clare has been waiting patiently for them to be reunited. She will be missed by all but she left behind some great memories for us to remember her by."
This lovely picture of Shirley was taken in 2020 when she was interviewed by the City of Guelph in their "local legacy" series. In the voice recording attached to this article, Shirley spoke of life with Clare and how every new generation of his students at the University of Guelph, and also members of Rotary, became part of their "second family".
Shirley Rennie – City of Guelph interview:
