Renate B. Matney

Renate B. Matney (Lemke) passed away peacefully on July 15, 2025 at Greenbrier Nursing Center, Eaton, OH. She was born in Berlin, Germany on August 18, 1940 to Alfred and Hedwig (Borchardt) Lemke. Renate came to the United States in September of 1963 and resided much of her life in Cleveland, OH.

Renate is preceded in death by her parents, her brother Alfred, and husbands Charles Davido and Carl Matney. She is survived by her children Carol (Mark) Acres, Donna (Robert) Taulbee and Steven (Martin) Warner, Heather (Alex) Rausch, and Eric Davido, niece Natasha Lemke, grandchildren Taylor Rausch, Evan (Erika) Acres, Bailey (Patrick) Jackson, Courtney (Jacob) Roberts, Jacob (Abby) Taulbee, Eli (Nicole) Taulbee and 12 great grandchildren (Sawyer, Merrick, Grayson, Paisley and Peyton Acres, Hayleigh, Braden, Wyatt, and Charlotte Roberts, June Taulbee, and Harper and Justin Taulbee). She also leaves behind many beloved friends. She is remembered for her wicked sense of humor, thoughtfulness and a real zest for life. She faced many challenges in her life and she fought valiantly to overcome those challenges. She loved animals and nature.

“A light has dimmed a voice is still, our feisty mother, against her will, Has left us now, a final bow, but oh, the memories, even now. Her wit, a spark, quick and so keen. The funniest woman we’d ever seen. A punchline ready, a playful tease, she’d bring us laughter, put hearts at ease. No shrinking violet, that’s for sure. She’d stand her ground, and then some more. A glint in her eye, a knowing smile, she’d tell you off but make it worthwhile. 

We’ll miss her quips, her joyful shout, the way she’d turn our frowns about. The world feels quieter, a little less bright, without her humor, her vibrant light. But in our hearts, her spirit stays, through all our future, coming days. And when we laugh, a sudden sound, we’ll know her humor still surrounds.”

The family is holding a private remembrance ceremony. In lieu of flowers, you may make a donation in Renate’s memory to either Day City Hospice or the Humane Society of Greater Dayton, Ohio. Gard Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Eaton is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences and other remembrances may be sent to the family by visiting www.gardfuneralhome.com.