Howe Receives Bill Reneker Community Service Award
Posted
Jennifer Peryam-jperyam@timesuniononline.com
WINONA LAKE - Bruce Howe received the Bill Reneker Memorial Community Service Award Friday night.
Howe was presented the award by Judy Reneker-Burd during the annual Winona Lake Community Appreciation Dinner at Westminster Hall in Winona Lake.
The award honors Bill Reneker, former Winona Lake town council president, who died in 1993.
Judy presents the award each year in honor of her late husband. The award is to recognize an individual who makes a contribution to the betterment of Winona Lake.
Howe has been a member of the Winona Lake Presbyterian Church for more than 80 years. He joined the Winona Lake Volunteer Fire Department in 1938 and served the department for 65 years, 23 of those years serving as fire chief.
On April 30, 1956, he saved the lives of two young boys who were trapped in the basement of a burning home.
He served in World War II and received five battle stars.
For more than 50 years he dedicated his life's work to the world of gospel music publishing.
His associations with Homer Rodeheaver, Rodeheaver Music Publishing, Word Records and the American Broadcasting Corp. helped to maintain Winona's prestige as the gospel music capitol of America.
He also has served with the Salvation Army.
Beginning in the 1960s he worked to honor local Salvation Army Brigadier Phillipson through fundraising efforts dedicated to support the Tree of Lights campaign.
Also during the dinner, home improvement awards were presented to Lillian Teeter, Roy and Carol Guenin, J. Davis and Cynthia Illingworth Jr. and Jay and Lori Wildman.The dinner was catered by Eagle Creek Farms Market, with music provided by Four O'Clock Shadow Quartet.
