Joe Renna

Joe Renna was 74 when he passed away on July 11, 2014 at home in DeBary, Florida. Joe leaves behind his wife, Mary Renna, his daughters, Nicole Renna and Kathryn Paparella, his grandson, Enzo Paparella and granddaughter, Luca Paparella. Joe and Mary's son, Tony Renna, passed away in 2003. Joe was born “Giuseppe” in Los Angeles, California to Stanislao Renna and Maria Mastronardi Renna, both of Bari, Italy. He had 5 brothers and sisters, Nick, Grace, Tony, Marian and John. At age 16 Joe became a professional race horse jockey. Joe and Mary owned and operated several McDonald's Restaurants in Southern California and Central Florida and then Gator's Dockside Restaurant in DeLand and J.R.'s Cactus Bob's Restaurant in Sanford, Florida. Joe retired from business in 2005 and took a keen interest in the sport of skeet shooting. He became an accomplished shooter, won many awards and passed on his knowledge and love of the sport to many up and comers. Joe was affiliated with the Volusia Skeet and Trap Club and Flagler Gun Club in Central Florida as well as Waukesha Gun Club and Boxhorn Sportsman Club in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Joe was an avid auto racing fan and when his children were old enough the family began traveling the USA to compete in Quarter Midget Racing ... kids from ages 5-15 are the drivers and Dad is the mechanic. Joe, and son, Tony's, love of auto racing continued as Tony advanced to become a professional Indycar driver and in 2003 finished 7th in the prestigious Indianapolis 500 Race. Joe was a dedicated husband, father and grandfather ... his family was always his top priority. He loved being called "Pa Joe" by his grandchildren and he cherished the time they shared together. Joe is loved, admired and dearly missed by his family and friends. Joe, Dad, Pa Joe, May perpetual light shine upon you and may you rest in peace. We love you always. Memorial Mass for the soul of Joe Renna Friday, July 25, 2014, 11:00 a.m. St. Ann's Catholic Church 25 Dogwood Trail, DeBary, Florida Donations in memory of Joe will be accepted by: The Tony Renna Memorial Fund 421 Fenwick Court, DeBary, Florida, 32713 www.tonyrennamemorialfund.com

Joe Renna

February 23, 1940 - July 11, 2014