Remembering Ernie Lewallen, a Rent-to-Own Industry Icon

Shannon Strunk delivers a heartfelt eulogy celebrating the life and legacy of his longtime friend and business partner

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Shannon Strunk delivers a moving eulogy honoring the life of Ernie Lewallen, a pioneering figure in the rent-to-own industry who passed away. Strunk highlights Lewallen's remarkable career, his leadership roles in industry associations APRO and TRIB, his entrepreneurial spirit, and his lasting impact on those he mentored and inspired.

Why it matters

Ernie Lewallen was a towering figure in the rent-to-own industry, known for his vision, passion, and commitment to the business. His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy will continue to shape the industry he helped build through his innovative spirit and dedication to community.

The details

Lewallen started his career in the rent-to-own industry in the early 1980s, working at Universal. He then founded his own company, United Household Rentals, in 1986, opening his first store in Eastgate. Over the years, he expanded to 10 stores and later added two RNR franchise locations. Lewallen was also deeply involved in industry associations, serving as president of APRO in 1998-1999 and holding various leadership roles with TRIB, the rental industry buying group.

  • Lewallen's United Household Rentals was incorporated in May 1986.
  • Lewallen opened his first RNR franchise store in 2004, followed by a second location shortly after.
  • Next month will mark 40 years since United Household Rentals' incorporation.

The players

Ernie Lewallen

A pioneering figure in the rent-to-own industry who founded United Household Rentals in 1986 and later added RNR franchise locations. He was deeply involved in industry associations, serving as president of APRO and holding leadership roles with TRIB.

Shannon Strunk

A longtime friend and business partner of Ernie Lewallen, who delivered the eulogy celebrating Lewallen's life and legacy.

APRO

The Association of Progressive Rental Organizations, the industry association that Lewallen served in various leadership positions, including as president in 1998-1999.

TRIB

The rental industry buying group that Lewallen was also heavily involved with, serving in several leadership roles.

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What they’re saying

“Ernie was truly a force of nature and always on a mission. His ambition and drive were evident in everything he pursued.”

— Shannon Strunk (rtohq.org)

“Ernie had the ability to confront controversial issues and gather support to address them. He was a true legend in our industry, and we will feel his loss. He impacted every one of us in a strong, positive way.”

— Shannon Strunk (rtohq.org)

“Ernie was a visionary, finding beauty in the ordinary and transforming his surroundings into a canvas filled with vibrant colors and stories.”

— Shannon Strunk (rtohq.org)

The takeaway

Ernie Lewallen's passing marks the end of an era in the rent-to-own industry, but his legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the industry he helped shape. His entrepreneurial spirit, innovative thinking, and commitment to community serve as an inspiration for all those who knew him.