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Edward "Jim" Renz was born on September 20, 1924 in Brooklyn, New York, the son of Edward Renz and Agnes (Sundquist) Renz. He ad one sister, Doris and in Rye his family lived at 61 Intervale Place.
Edward James Renz graduated from Rye High School in 1942 and went on to Cornell University, where he attended the Cornell School of Architecture, which he left after enlisting in the Army to serve in the infantry during World War II.
 Jim was called to active duty in March of 1943, served proudly and honorably in Company A of the 335 Infantry, 84th "Railsplitters" Division of the United States Army. He was called to active duty in March of 1943 and served until January of 1946.
The 84th Division entered combat on November 18, 1944 with an attack on Geilenkirchen, Germany, (Operation Clipper) as part of the larger offensive in the Roer Valley, north of Aachen. Operating under the command of Lt-Gen Brian Horrocks the division was supported by British tanks of the Sherwood Rangers Yeomanry, specialist armored units of 79th Armored Division, and XXX Corps' artillery.
Taking Geilenkirchen on 19 November, the division pushed forward to take Beeck (Geilenkirchen) and Lindern (Geilenkirchen) in the face of heavy enemy resistance.
Pfc Edward J Renz Jr 20, was slightly wounded in Germany on Dec 2 two months after he had gone overseas. A letter sent to his parents dated December 8, 1944 simply declared: “I have been wounded in Germany but am now in England recovering. The extent if my wound I am not allowed to disclose but don't worry I am OK"
Jim received a Purple Heart for wounds received in combat on December 2, 1944 while fighting in Germany. He returned to his unit and would ascend to the rank of Technical Sergeant and received his honorable discharge in January 1946.
 Jim married Alice Ryan on Saturday, Feb. 21. 1948, in the rectory of the Church of the Immaculate Conception in ithaca, NY. They would have three children during their marriage.
Jim worked for Manhattan based importer and wholesaler, Hammel, Riglander and Co., Inc. for over 30 years, rising to the position of President. Later, when the company was sold, he continued to work as an independent consultant until the age of 79.
He spent the first half of his life in Rye, New York and the last half in Mamaroneck, New York, both located on the Long Island Sound, where he loved to sail competitively with the Ensign Fleet during the summers and the Frostbiting Fleet during the winters. He was active and held official positions in both organizations.
Edward James Renz of Mamaroneck, New York died peacefully on September 1, 2008 at the age of 83.
At the time of his death he was survived by one daughter, Gail Renz of Concord, Massachusetts, two sons, Eric Renz of Fort Myers, Florida and Adam Renz of Mamaroneck, New York, six grandchildren, Nicole, Dylan, Dustin, Jesse, Benjamin and Nicholas, and three great-grand-daughters, Peyton, Emerson and Reegan. He will be dearly missed.
Edward James Renz final resting place is at Arlington National Cemetery.
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