"I was one of David's 6th teachers in Donna, many years ago. Some students have touched my life and heart in such a way, that they are remembered and part of my heart for the rest of my life. David was one of those students. He invited me and another teacher to attend one of his fights and we went. I was scared to death for him, but he handled the fight so well and made a lasting impression. My prayers to his family during this time of sorrow. May God bless and comfort. "
In loving memory of
David John Renk Sr.
February 23, 1963 - September 21, 2018
SAN ISIDRO - Matador David Renk passed away Friday, September 21st, 2018 at his home in La Gloria, Texas from congestive heart failure. He was 55 years old. David was born on February 23, 1963 in Odessa, TX.
David enjoyed deer hunting, fishing, baseball, football and just about any other sport. He was a true sportsman, giving his all to everything in life.
David took the alternativa in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, on April 19, 1981, at the age of 18. He became the youngest American to receive the alternativa, and the sixth American to receive it. On October 3, 1983, David confirmed his alternativa in Plaza Mexico, becoming the first American ever to do so.
Amongst other achievements, David was the 2017 recipient of the NATC's O. P. Houston Award for conspicuous achievement in the world of tauromaquia.
He is preceded in death by his mom, Barbara Dawson, and brother, Fred John Renk III "Binker".
David is survived by his father, Fred John Renk II (Lisa), biological father, Mike Martz, son, David John Renk, II, and wife Lisa, of San Isidro, daughter, Christina Nicole Brown and husband, Ashton, of Round Rock, grandchildren, Augustus Levi Renk, Marelie Elizabeth Renk, and Carson Tyler Brown, aunts, Kathy Trammel, Kay McKinney, and Janet Evans, mother of his children, friend and companion, Amanda Jean Hammett, and ex-wife, Alma Renk, sister, Missy Pixley, brother, Phillip Phillips.
Tributes
"David was such a wonderful person. He and Amanda were dear friends to us when we lived in San Isidro. They honored us with being the Godparents to our beautiful Christina. He will be dearly missed. We had some wonderful memories. RIP David"
"To the Family of Matador David John Renk, Sr. So sorry to learn about the loss of your Dear Loved One, Please know that so many people share your grief with you to help you through this difficult time of sorrow. Please accept my deepest condolences as we await the time when Christ Jesus will awaken all those who have fallen asleep in death; including your Beloved David. (John 11:41-44)"
"I knew David in high school. I helped him with his English and history during our study hall He was such a confident person and always smiling. "
"I knew David in high school. He lived down the road from us in Alamo and we rode the same schoolbus home every day. He had the most beautiful smile and was very friendly. He was a really nice guy. I will always remember you and am proud to have called you my friend. Rest In Peace."
"Rest In Peace David. "
"I had the pleasure of being a classmate and schoolbus-mate of David's. He was very nice and had a contagious smile. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family. You are in my prayers."
"David was a classmate of mine. I am so sorry to hear of his passing. My condolences to the family. "