Cecil G. Rennells

Cecil Gilbert Rennells, 71, of Green Bay, passed away on Saturday, October 4th, 2025 at Aurora Hospital following a courageous 3 year battle with lung cancer. Born in Milwaukee, WI on January 20th, 1954 to Robert & Loraine (Pollack) Rennells, Cecil spent most of his childhood in Green Bay, where he attended Elmore School and was a part of the Green Bay West High Class of 1972. He later earned his GED while in the Marines. 

As a young boy, Cecil loved visiting his family in Ripon and spending time at his Uncle’s farm. Early in his adult life, he worked as an over-the-road truck driver, followed by positions at Humana, Ameriprise and later as a driver for the Oneida Elder Services - his final job before retiring in 2016.

 In 1996, Cecil met the love of his life, Barb Willems. The two married a few years later and recently celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary. One of Cecil’s proudest accomplishments was purchasing their first home together, which he lovingly maintained and improved over the years. He took great pride in his yard, spending countless hours ensuring every detail was perfect. 

Though a quiet man, Cecil had a deeply loving and thoughtful nature. He often surprised Barb with the sweetest cards, surprise dinners and gifted her an Easter lily every year - small traditions that spoke volumes about his heart. He also loved grilling out on their patio, where many warm memories were shared together over the years. 

Cecil had a lifelong love for classic cars, with his last being his red convertible Mustang. A proud member of the NEW Stang Club, he could often be found polishing all three of their cars in the driveway on summer weekends. He and Barb loved taking car rides together - whether along the bay, up to Door County, or on some more memorable road trips, including a drive to Tennessee to meet their newborn granddaughter Evelyn. They were also able to take a trip of a lifetime to Alaska to visit family. 

Cecil was also a member of AA, achieving and maintaining his sobriety was one of his greatest personal milestones. Receiving his 12-step sobriety coin was a moment of deep pride and one that he carried with honor and humility the rest of his life. His commitment to that journey reflected his quiet strength and perseverance. 

Cecil is survived by his wife Barb; sons Ken Phillips and Reuben (Lisa) Phillips; daughter Jessica (Kyle) Erhart; and cherished grandchildren Evelyn and Alistair Erhart. He is further survived by his sisters, Cheryl (Greg) Lannoye and Cathy Rennells; brother, Michael Cleary; and brothers-and sisters-in-law Dan (Mary Lou) Willems, Mary Lannoye, Barbara Willems, David (Mary) Willems and Barb Willems, as well as many nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Loraine, stepfather Robert Cleary, father- and mother-in-law Gilbert and Mary (Zeise) Willems and brothers-in-law Lee Willems and Paul Willems. 

Cecil’s family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to his dedicated care team at Aurora, including his doctors and nurses who provided comfort and compassion throughout his journey. 

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, November 14, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Newcomer Cremations & Funerals in Green Bay, WI. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to the Green Bay Area Humane Society. Cecil had a deep love for dogs and all dogs loved him, especially Otto, Sammy, Hope & Gilly.