John Brenner

John M. Brenner, 82, born December 18, 1925 in Olympia, WA, passed away December 20, 2007 at St. Vincent's Hospital in Santa Fe. He is preceded in death by his parents Earl G. Brenner and Hazel Maahs Brenner of Olympia, WA, and his brother Earl R. Brenner. John attended school in Olympia, WA and joined the U.S. Navy in 1944, where he served in the South Pacific on the Destroyer USS Shields. Upon his return he attended Menlo College in Palo Alto, CA and the University of Washington. He became active in the family business, The J.J. Brenner Oyster Company, and then moved to Taos in 1960 to join the First State Bank of Taos. He was promoted to President in 1970 and served until 1977 when he became Vice Chairman of the Board. He retired from the bank in 1980. During his time at the bank, the building on the Plaza was built, as well as the Southside Branch, and the Red River and Questa branches. He especially enjoyed overseeing the construction of these buildings, and was often seen plowing the snow from the parking lots. His civic involvements included serving as President of the Taos County Chamber of Commerce, president and treasurer of the Lions Club, a number of years with the Taos Volunteer Fire Department, and a supervisor of the Taos County Soil and Water Conservation District. He and his family enjoyed camping, fishing and traveling in their motor home. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Barbara Brandenburg Brenner, his daughters, Marcia Brenner Winter (Fred Winter) and Anne Brenner (Cortney E. Stewart) of Taos. He also leaves grandsons Wyatt B. Winter of Orlando, FL and Peter B. Winter of Taos. Also surviving him are nephews Byron L. Brenner (Renee) and Bruce H. Brenner (Valerie) of Olympia, WA A private burial service has been held. Arrangements were handled by Rivera Family Mortuaries and Crematory Friends are invited to visit with the family from 4pm to 6pm on Friday, December 28 at the home of Marcia and Fred Winter. If desired, memorial contributions may be made in his name to the Taos Community Foundation, PO Box 1925, Taos, NM, 87571.