Evelyn Renz - Obituary

n Tuesday, June 25, 2013, Evie Renz (Evelyn Panther Hooker), affectionately known as ViVi, passed on to the next world after a brave battle with her illness. Born in Baltimore, Maryland to the late Georgia and Herb Panther, Vivi lived in Northern Virginia during her elementary and middle school years. Her family moved to Davenport, Iowa where she graduated from Assumption High School. She attended Mary Crest College, the George Washington University, and obtained her degree from George Mason University. Vivi had a sterling 35-year career in the U.S. Government where she started as a GS-2 clerk typist. She retired in 1994 after working her way up to Executive Officer for a newly formed Bureau at the U.S. Agency for International Development. This Bureau was responsible for providing aid to the newly independent states formed by the dissolution of the Soviet Union. After her government career, she taught introductory computer courses at Anne Arundel Community College for a few years before placing all her energy into charities and social clubs, at which she held various positions and offices. She worked tirelessly for the Severn Town Club, the Annapolis Garden Club, the Assistance League and the community book club. She derived particular pleasure from her work as a puppeteer for children. Over the years she advanced her skills with cooking and attended cooking school in Italy. She loved preparing meals for the great parties she adored to host, whether it be for 3 or 50. Her Cinco de Mayo Party of 2012 was possibly one of her best. She was a truly amazing, kind, and generous woman; loved by everyone who met her. She amassed many friends from all walks of life. Evie’s smile, spirit for life, and kindness will always be remembered and so missed. She leaves behind her daughter, Michele Johnson; her son, Sean Hooker; three granddaughters, Lucy and Caroline Johnson and Sydney Hooker; her siblings, Ellen Dolan, Tom and Jim Panther and their families; her husband Steve Renz and a vast group of friends. A memorial service will be held at the George P. Kalas Funeral Home, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater Maryland on Saturday, July 27th at 1:00PM followed by a celebration of her life with a buffet reception. In lieu of flowers, donations in her name may be made to The Severn Town Club, P.O. Box 572, Annapolis, MD 21404, or to your favorite charity.