Steven E. Rensma

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Steven E. Rensma on January 4, 2025 at 85 years old. Steve left this world peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and integrity surrounded by his loving family at his home.

Born on September 12, 1939 in Warren, PA, Steve was the son of the late Steven Rensma and Florence (Simones) Rensma. He graduated from Youngsville High School in 1957 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Forestry from West Virginia University in 1961. While at West Virginia, Steve co-chaired the Forestry Jubilee and won the log rolling competition as well as becoming the distance spitting champ, a source of personal and family pride!!

From age 16, when he purchased his first timber property and logging horse, Steve’s love of the outdoors fueled much of what he did throughout his life. He was a dedicated forester and an avid hunter and trapper. He was a leader and mentor in his field and served as the president of the Society of American Foresters. Steve’s career started in the US Forest Service in Marienville, PA where they called him the Timber Beast. Steve went to work for Fisher and Young where he managed the timberland. Steve partnered with his longtime friend Dick Nichols creating Northwest Hardwoods for approximately 5 years. He became self-employed under Rensma Timberlands until the time of his death. Steve always said that he loved his work and felt that the day he retired would be the day he would die.

His hobby of growing Christmas trees at an early age budded into a 40-year business serving the Titusville area and providing Christmas trees to many. He was known as the Christmas Tree Man. Christmas was his favorite time of year.

Steve’s faith was expressed in his dedication to attending and supporting his church as a long-standing member of St. Titus Catholic Church. He served in various capacities including usher. After church in the fall, Steve was in front of the TV rooting for the Steelers. He was also a Pirate fan and West Virginia Mountaineer fan.

He is fondly remembered by his family for his support and presence in their lives. He also provided great fun at family Christmas parties featuring canoe rides in the snow, mechanical bull riding, horse drawn carriage rides, and live reindeer walking through the living room. No one knew what could be lurking in their white elephant Christmas present or how the Christmas tree would be displayed.

Steve was grateful, possessed a warm smile and welcoming nature. He embodied a sense of humor, passion for work, and valued others. His commitment to excellence and integrity was evident. Though battling illness, Steve faced his challenges with strength, faith, and a positive attitude that encouraged his family through difficult times. His resolve continues to guide those he left behind.

Steve is survived by his wife, Dana (Cheney) Rensma of Titusville, Pennsylvania, son, Todd A. Rensma, of Fairport Harbor, Ohio, daughter, Kimberly (Gene) Grove of Oak Hill, Virginia, daughter Jamie (Doug) Schafer of Fairport Harbor, Ohio, step son Shane (Alexia) Somerville of Townville, Pennsylvania, he leaves behind 13 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren, Preceded in death by his father Steven Rensma and mother Florence (Simones) Rensma, preceded in death by his sister Patricia Rensma , sister Linda (Dick) Lightner of Hernando, Florida. Nephew, Jansen (Mary) Rensma of Chapel Hill, NC.

A service to celebrate his life will be held on Friday, January 10th, 2025, at the Gordon B Garrett Funeral Home 303 North Washington Street, Titusville, PA. Visitation 11:00AM to 1:00 PM at which time the funeral service will be conducted. A livestream link to the service will be available on the Gordon B Garrett Funeral Home website: garrettfuneralhomeinc.com where condolences may also be sent to.

Interment will be in Union Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made The Division of Forestry and Natural Resources Fund 2V101 in memory of Steven E. Rensma online at https://give.wvu.edu Or checks made payable to WVU Foundation, One Waterfront Place, 7th Floor, PO Box 1650, Morgantown, WV 26507-1650; or to Hospice of Crawford County 766 Liberty St. Meadville, PA 16335.

Though he may no longer walk among us, the impact of Steve’s life will be felt for generations to come. He leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and excellence.

May he rest in peace.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Steven E. Rensma, please visit our floral store.