Grand Valley, West Michigan leaders mourn death of philanthropist

Leaders at Grand Valley State University and in the West Michigan community are mourning the death of Peter P. Renucci on September 15. He was 81.

Renucci was a successful businessman and generous philanthropist who had a deep passion for the health science industry, which he helped advance by making many contributions to area educational institutions and local hospitals. 

As a Grand Valley University Foundation director for nearly two decades, Renucci was an active supporter of Grand Valley.

“Grand Valley’s students in the health sciences owe much to Peter’s passion for their education and the level of care our graduates provide in the community," said President Philomena V. Mantella. "We will miss his unwavering support and friendship.” 

Renucci and his wife, Pat, supported health care education. Renucci served as campaign chair for Grand Valley's Building for Life campaign for the Cook-DeVos Center for Health Sciences and the couple generously funded equipment, creating the Mr. and Mrs. Peter P. Renucci Medical Laboratory Science Program Laboratory.

The Renuccis also established two scholarships, the Peter P. Renucci Family Medical Lab Sciences Scholarship and the Peter P. and Patricia R. Renucci Medical Lab Sciences Scholarship, which support students from Grand Rapids who are pursuing careers in the health sciences and medical lab sciences, respectively.

Most recently, their gifts supported Raleigh J. Finkelstein Hall, part of the expansion of Grand Valley’s Health Campus. The building's CSD Vestibular Lab was named in their honor.

Renucci was also a supporter and avid fan of both Grand Valley’s arts programs and Laker football.

A gift in memory of Peter can be made to the Peter P. Renucci Family Medical Lab Sciences Scholarship, visit gvsu.edu/giving/renucci.