Obituary

Margaret Mary Rennau, 92, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 19, 2026, surrounded by the family she loved so deeply.

Margaret was born on April 27, 1934, to George and Margaret Donovan at St. Joseph Hospital in Kansas City, Missouri. She attended St. Teresa’s Academy before earning her teaching degree from Maryville University.

Her life changed forever the night she met the love of her life, Robert “Bob” Rennau, during the opening season of the Starlight Theatre. Together, they shared 34 beautiful years of marriage and raised four children: Robert Jr., Michael, Mark, and Lisa.

A dedicated schoolteacher and mother, Margaret had a rare gift for uplifting others. She lived life with a vibrant, adventurous spirit, finding great joy in traveling, spending time at Benjamin Stables, and attending The American Royal Rodeo. She was a woman who truly never met a stranger; wherever she went, she extended warmth to everyone she encountered. Her table was always open, and there was always room for family, friends, or anyone needing comfort.

Margaret was equally defined by her profound Catholic faith. She supported her parish generously, dedicating her time to its many ministries and holding a deep devotion to the Rosary—a spiritual gift she lovingly passed down through generations.

Throughout her life, Margaret was a pillar of strength in her community. She stood proudly alongside her husband during his service as the Jackson County Sheriff. She went on to carve out her own path, serving with distinction as a Missouri State Senator. Compassionate, courageous, and truly larger than life, she left an indelible mark on Missouri politics and the communities she represented.

Margaret was preceded in death by her parents, George and Margaret Donovan; her loving husband, Robert “Bob” Rennau; her son, Michael Rennau (Cindy); and her grandchildren, Johnny Valdivia and Jessica Ladd.

Her extraordinary legacy lives on through her surviving children: her sons, Robert Rennau Jr. (Guadalupe) and Mark Rennau (Amy), and her daughter, Lisa Ladd (Bob).

She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren: Stacey Montgomery (Buddy), Virginia Worstell (Ethan), Robert Ladd Jr. (Emmy), J.P. Mainers (Cortney), Bob Rennau, Brynn Goe, Joe Valdivia, Sal Valdivia, and Michael Valdivia; 25 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and a vast circle of extended family, former students, and lifelong friends whose lives were forever enriched by her love, faith, and unforgettable spirit.

Services will be held on Monday, September 28, 2026, at Our Lady of the Presentation Catholic Church, 130 NW Murray Road, Lee’s Summit, MO 64081. A visitation will take place from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed immediately by a funeral Mass at 11:00 AM. A luncheon for family and friends will follow the Mass.