Howard Julian Renard, 95, formerly of Algoma, passed away on September 30, 2024, in Luxemburg.  He was born October 17, 1928, in the Town of Union to Fred and Louise (Fabry) Renard.  He married Angela Bouche on August 5, 1947, in Rosiere.  Together they raised seven children and enjoyed 72 years of marriage.  They were a great team both in business and in family life.  His family will never forget what an amazing caregiver Howard was to his wife as her health failed. 

As a young teen, Howard made cheese for Fairland Cheese Factory in Namur and earned his cheese making license as a very young man.  After working in the cheese making industry for several years, he established his own business, Renard’s Cheese in 1961.  In 1966, he helped his son Gary and Bonnie acquire the Cloverleaf Dairy.  In the mid 70’s, they merged their two businesses, and both opened their own retail cheese stores.  Later, his son Brian joined his father and brother in the family business.  Working with his sons was one of Howard’s greatest joys.  As time went on, Howard, as a natural entrepreneur, took on a role as head cheese broker while Gary and Brian focused on the craft of cheese making. The business eventually developed a very successful brand and distribution network nationwide.

For many years, Howard served as vice president of the Northeastern Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association.  Howard was recognized by the Cheesemakers Association, along with his son, Gary, for the life-time achievement award which was a rare situation for a father and son.  He also helped found the Packerland Whey Plant in Luxemburg. 

Howard loved playing cards, and fishing with his family.  He enjoyed traveling with his wife around the country and to Europe.  Howard worked hard and played hard.  He had an unconditional love for his family and treasured all the family time and activities.  Howard will always be remembered as a hardworking, honest, genuine, and very generous man.  His kindness and generosity had a lasting impact on numerous employees and customers.  His work was a passion to him, not a job.

Survivors include his daughter-in-law, Bonnie Renard; 5 children, Joe (Judi) Renard, Mary (Neal) Bessett, Brian (Tina) Renard, Paul (friend, Michelle) Renard, and John (Desray) Renard;  18 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and a sister-in-law, Marilyn Renard.  He was preceded by his parents; wife; 2 sons, Gary and Robert; granddaughter, Carrie Renard; and a brother, Ron.

Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, October 4, 2024, at St. Francis & St. Mary Parish in Brussels with Rev. Edward Looney officiating.  Entombment will be in the Shrine of the Good Shepherd Mausoleum.  Visitation will be from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Thursday at the Forbes Funeral Home in Sturgeon Bay and from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services at the church on Friday.   A prayer service will be held at 6:30 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.  On-line condolences may be offered at forbesfuneralhome.com

Special thanks to Howard’s many caregivers over the years, especially Amanda Barragan, and to all of his dear visitors while he was at Autumn Fields.  Also, thanks to Autumn Fields and St. Croix Hospice for the wonderful care and support.