Obituary of Rainer Carl Tegge
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Rainer C. Tegge on October 29, 2023, at NY Presbyterian Hospital, New York City, at the age of 67.
Born in Brooklyn, NY, Rainer later called Staten Island his home before settling in Warren, NJ, 38 years ago. A proud alumnus of NJIT in Newark, NJ, he obtained both his bachelor's and master’s degrees in electrical engineering, thanks in part to the generous educational program of his employer.
Rainer embarked on his engineering journey with Bendix right after college. His commitment remained unwavering even as Bendix underwent transitions, being acquired by Allied Signal and later Honeywell. He honored the company with his loyalty until his retirement in 2019.
A devout Catholic, Rainer was a steadfast communicant of Our Lady of the Mount RC Church in Warren. His dedication extended beyond church walls; he was an integral part of the Knights of Columbus. He held memberships with both the Knights of Columbus Father Russell Council in Warren and achieved a 4th degree Knight standing with the George Washington Council in Somerville. His commitment to service was further demonstrated as a member of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher-Easter Lieutenancy and the CornerStone at Our Lady of the Mount.
Outside of his career and community services, Rainer had a passion for life and adventure. A skilled accordion player, he found joy in sailing his boat, Little Zoot, alongside his beloved wife. The skies weren’t off-limits for him either; he was an enthusiastic pilot who cherished flying. And on bright, sunlit days, Rainer could often be seen cruising on his Kawasaki. When he wasn’t out on his adventures he enjoyed playing with his beloved grandchildren.
Rainer leaves behind a legacy of love. He is survived by his devoted wife of 43 years, Mariann Andersen Tegge; their daughter, Nicole Scott; her husband, William IV; and their children, William V and Benjamin, his son Johnathan and his girlfriend Shannon Ryan. His brothers, Bernhard, and Hartmut Mertens also mourns his loss.
The family welcomes all to pay their respects on Sunday from 4 to 8 p.m. at Higgins Home for Funerals, 752 Mountain Blvd., Watchung, NJ 07069. A funeral mass is scheduled for Monday at 11 a.m. at Our Lady of the Mount RC Church in Warren. Rainer will be laid to rest at Holy Cross Cemetery in Basking Ridge.
In Rainer's memory, and in place of flowers, kindly consider making a donation to Our Lady of the Mount RC Church or the American Cancer Society.
