Rene Rangel, age 74, passed away peacefully on August 31, 2026 in Muskegon, Michigan. He was born on March 12, 1952, in Alice, Texas, the son of Liliana Lopez and Ignacio Rangel.

Rene grew up in a large and loving family alongside his siblings and Uncle Yeto, who was an important presence throughout much of his life. After losing his hearing as a young child, Rene learned to navigate the world in his own unique way. Though he never formally learned sign language, he communicated through spoken words, lip reading, gestures, and expressions, forming lasting connections with family and friends. He attended an adult education program for many years, where he built meaningful friendships and enjoyed helping Liz with the food service. He took pride in being part of the program and the community he found there. Rene picked asparagus, helped his friend Larry with construction, and assisted with mowing, hauling wood, and household chores. Later in life, his nephew Jason taught him how to use a washer and dryer, giving him greater independence. Rene also loved to dance, enjoyed playing golf, watching classic Westerns, trying his luck with scratch-off tickets and getting out and about in town. He was an enthusiastic WWE fan who could often be found watching wrestling with a cold beer in his hand. He always had a smile, hug and handshake for everyone, especially the nieces and nephews he adored. Known for his sense of humor, playful nature, and the laughter he brought to those around him, Rene cherished family gatherings and was the life of the party.

Rene is survived by: his brother, Jesus Rangel; sisters, Diana Streeter, Belinda (Alan) Wittkamp, Frances Lewis, and Eva Lopez; sisters-in-law, Betty Rangel and Valerie Liscomb; aunts, Rume Guerra, and Carmen Lopez; and many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Rene was preceded in death by: his parents, Liliana and Ignacio; grandparents, Trinidad and Rosa Lopez and Jesus and Francisca Rangel; brother Juan Rangel; uncle, Indalecio "Yeto" Rangel; brother-in-law, Jeff Streeter; and nephew, Jason Rangel.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 am Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at Harris Funeral Home, 267 N. Michigan Avenue, Shelby, MI 49455, with Pastor Bill Ryder officiating. Visitation will be held from 10:00 am until the time of services at the Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Harbor Hospice Foundation, Leila & Cyrus Poppen Hospice Residence, 1050 W. Western Avenue, Suite 400, Muskegon, MI 49441, or online at harborhospicemi.org.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Harbor Hospice in Muskegon, Butterworth Hospital, and Regency at Fremont for their compassionate care, as well as everyone who took the time to visit Rene, share a memory, offer a smile, or simply sit by his side in his final days.

Rene will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Harris Funeral Home, in Shelby, is in charge of arrangements.

www.harrisfhome.com