Jean F Pennington

February 11th, 1927 to November 1st, 2015
Jean Frances Pennington, 88, of Lakeport, died Sunday, November 1, 2015.

She was born February 11, 1927 in Scranton, Pennsylvania. When Jean was still small, the family moved from Scranton, Pennsylvania, first to Detroit, then to Roseville.

While in Eastland High School, Jean distinguished herself academically. When the valedictorian was called away for the war effort, Jean addressed the graduating class of 1945 in the valedictorian’s stead. She had a life-long passion for reading, and had a book by her side when she passed.

She met her future husband, Wilfred Pennington, at Verhoven Chevrolet, where she worked as a secretary. Wilf worked there as a mechanic, and union steward in the shop. In 1951 they moved to Lakeport, where Wilf bought a gas station/repair shop, and where they made their home.

Jean was health conscious before it was fashionable. She greatly enjoyed her experience as a Body Recall instructor. Exercise was always a part of her life, whether she was walking, cycling or cross country skiing with her husband, in the beloved state park, or working with her dumbbells, or recumbent stationary cycle. Ballroom dancing with Wilf was a tremendous pleasure. They made a beautiful couple together.

She enjoyed travel, with and without Wilf; going to England, Greece, Mexico, Alaska, and various places in the Caribbean.

Her dogs brought her much joy. Even during the past year, she could still be seen around Lakeport, walking her little beagle, Princess.

Jean could be a person of strong will and determination, who treasured her independence. Many remarked on her energy.

She proudly raised her three children; Moira, Geoffrey, and Chris. She took great pride in her five grandchildren; Kristen, Steven, Alex, Adrienne and Christine. Her Faith was very important, and she loved attending services at St. Edward on-the-Lake Catholic Church.

Jean was born to a family of coal miners. Her father was sent to work at the mines out of the fifth grade, when his own father was killed in a mining accident. Her mother’s father was blinded in a mining accident. She had fond memories of the kindness of this blind man, then a bar owner, when she was small. John Lewis, organizer for the miners, was held in high esteem by her family. These experiences undoubtedly influenced Jean’s character.

Jean is survived by her three children, Moira (Paul) Smith, Geoffrey (Cathy) Pennington and Chris (Holly) Pennington; her grandchildren, Kristen (Erik) Mischker, Adrienne and Christine Pennington, Alex and Steven Pennington; and her brothers, Ken Zuchlewski and Marty (Rose) Zuhler. She was preceded in death by her husband, Wilfred Pennington.

We will miss you mom.

Mass of Resurrection will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, November 14, 2015 in St. Edward on-the-Lake Catholic Church. The Reverend Lee Acervo will officiate. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of service in the church.

Inurnment will be in Lakeport Cemetery.

Arrangements are by Karrer-Simson Funeral Home.

No Upcoming Events

Document Actions