Mar. 7, 1921 - Feb. 16, 2010SOUTH BEND - John Richard Pennell passed away February 16, 2010 at Healthwin. He was born March 7, 1921 in Berrien Springs, Michigan to Pearl (Ingleright) and Lyle A. Pennell. On February 21, 1948 he married the love of his life, Marietta Deruyck Pennell. They were married almost 60 years and together they raised 5 children. John was preceded in death by his wife, Marietta and one son Terry of Milwaukee, WI. Surviving are his children Joseph (Val) Pennell, Thomas (Ronda) Pennell and Sharon L. Miller all of South Bend and Richard (RaeAnn) of Kingman, KS, several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is also survived by two sisters Barbara Dudas of Granville, MI, and his beloved sister Lucille Riland of Niles, MI. A brother Fred of Scottsdale, AZ preceded him in death. John was a W.W. II Navy Veteran having served in both the Atlantic and Pacific Seas. He served aboard the USS Wasp which was hit and sunk during battle, the USS Massey, the USS Essex and the USS Leroy Eltinge from which he was honorably discharged. He was a family man, an avid reader, especially Westerns and he enjoyed nature. After retirement, he loved to travel in his motorhome with his wife. Always together, they saw a lot of this country from coast to coast. Along with his travels some of his fondest memories though were of growing up on the farm on Rangeline Road in Berrien Springs. He loved canoeing up and down the St. Joseph River and riding the pony with his sister Lucille. He will be missed by his family. Friends may call from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., Saturday, February 20, 2010, in the Kaniewski Funeral Home, 3545 N. Bendix Drive. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, followed by a procession and military rites at Highland Cemetery. A special Thank You to all the staff at Healthwin for their wonderful care of both our parents in the years they were there. All their friendly smiles and comfort made it truly feel like home. Memorial contributions may be made to Healthwin in John's name to continue the activities and maintenance of the beautiful grounds he so enjoyed. To send online condolences, please visit kaniewski.com.