Llewelyn John Rentel

Lew was born on September 29th, 1937, in Altoona, PA, where he met the love of his life, Billie Ann Baker, who he married on May 23rd, 1959. Lew was preceded in death by his loving wife, Billie, his parents, Victor and Mary Rentel, and his brothers Victor and Daniel Rentel. Lew is survived by his daughters Robin Akers (Gary) of Chester, Virginia, Tracey Adams (Scott) of Holly Springs, North Carolina, Stefanie Anthony of Charlotte, North Carolina, and Erin Brady (Mike) of Gibsonville, North Carolina. His grandchildren Dylan Akers of Richmond, Virginia, Jessica Akers Loper (Ron) of Chester, Virginia, Justin Brady of Charleston, South Carolina, and Mason Brady of Sanford, North Carolina. His great grandchildren, Benson, Cadence and Ron Loper, Jr. of Chester, Virginia, and many other loving family and friends.

Lew was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1959, and was honorably discharged in 1962. Lew credited his time in the Army for preparing him for a world beyond Altoona. Following his discharge from the Army, Lew started as a delivery driver for United Parcel Service (UPS) in Altoona, PA, in 1963. Lew said that “UPS made me an offer that was too good to pass up,” and “The morals that are the backbone of this company are the same morals that can be the backbone of living a good life.” Emphasizing integrity and helping younger employees become better employees by helping them learn from his mistakes was the backbone of his career. Lew’s career at UPS brought he and his family to North Carolina. As Lew reflected on his life, he couldn’t hide his smile as he responded to the question concerning his family and UPS. “There’s no doubt I wouldn’t have survived without my wife Bille and her support, says Lew. “UPS has provided me a secure financial future and job security in exchange for my commitment, but my commitment wouldn’t have been fulfilled if Billie hadn’t been there for me in the tough times.” Lew retired from UPS in 1992, after a long and successful career. An article published in the East Carolina BIG IDEA 9/90, stated that “Lew Rentel may just be a legend in his own time.”

Most importantly, Lew was a supportive and loving husband, father and grandfather, to his wife, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Lew’s extended family includes lifelong friends from Altoona, PA, and Cary, NC.

As a young boy, Lew loved playing baseball in Altoona’s 5th Ward district. As an adult, Lew enjoyed reading, photography, golfing, and fishing. In later years, his focus turned to socialization, good diet, and regular exercise. Laughter was Lew’s favorite sport. As anyone who has ever met Lew will tell you, he will either make you laugh or surprise you while trying to do so. Lew and Billie retired at age 55 and set out on many adventures.They bought their dream house in Pine Knoll Shores, NC, and set out to travel the world. When they were not traveling and collecting artwork from around the world, the family entertained extended family and friends at their “Beach House”. Lew and his family often returned to Altoona to celebrate the holidays with family and friends. Lew and Billie regularly attend their high school reunions in Altoona and several of their high school friends traveled annually to Emerald Isle, NC, to vacation with Lew and Billie an enjoy time spent with forever friends.

Lew was a generous person and always went out of his way to support charitable organizations. Lew and Billie established a Charitable Remainder Trust to benefit North Carolina State Athletics, the Veterinary School, and Arts NC State. Lew and his family were proud to give their support and money to “Nothing but Net” which raises funds and brings awareness to Special Olympics and showcases what Special Olympic Athletes can truly do and give them opportunities to be great. Billie’s Pack was organized with family and friends to support the Joey O Bocce Classic – Rolling to Cure Cystic Fibrosis and the Parkinson’s Foundation. Lew and Billie were big supporters of the Frankie Lemon Foundation and spent many fun filled nights supporting the cause at the Triangle Wine and Food Experience. Lew and his family are huge fans of North Carolina State Wolfpack academics and sports. Lew and Billie attended many Wolfpack football and basketball games over the years. They enjoyed traveling to the ACC basketball tournaments and football bowl games. Their local tailgate parties with family and friends are legendary.

Lew’s family would like to thank the staff at Searstone’s Brittany Place, the caregivers from Home Instead, and the staff at Transitions Hospice, for becoming part of our family and caring for Lew in these past few years.