We Remember
PENNEY, Donald Weldon
—
1936 – 2021
Don Penney was born in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia in 1936, and passed away peacefully May 9, 2021 in Kelowna, British Columbia. He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Henrietta; son Ken (Janice); daughter Mary (Carmen); and grandchildren Jessica (Pat), Dominic (Charlene), Sadie, Claire, Kelsey, Carlie (Colin) and TJ. Don was predeceased by his son Wayne (Joanne).
Many who knew Don became charmed by his friendly kind manner and his genuine love of life. Don was just a fine gentleman in every way. Fiercely devoted to his wife Henrietta, and happiest when all of his extended family surrounded him.
Most of us dream of a husband, father, and grandfather like Don. He was very present in all our lives. The grandchildren loved their Papa greatly and that love was returned two-fold. His presence was a calming force. He had a great sense of humour, a strong sense of morality and decency, and he led by example. He was a skilled builder and craftsman, a skill he passed on to his sons. He also passed along his passion for fishing and appreciation for the outdoors to his whole family.
Don was always delighted when supporting the interests of those he loved, so he would like to ask that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Vista Academy, a learning centre devoted to supporting children with autism and founded by his wife Henrietta. This would be a meaningful way of honouring his passion for his family. A celebration of life will be planned when Covid-19 protocols permit.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.
Don and Henrietta have been friends of my Family for many years. There is nothing I can say about Don that was not mentioned in his Obituary, he truly was a gentlemen and one of a kind. Rest In Peace Don, so glad I have many wonderful memories of our friendship. Love Jill
Heaven holds the one you love. My sincerest condolences to all of you. Thinking of you, Pam Lewington
Words cannot express how sorry I am to hear of Don’s passing. I will always remember the family times we shared. Don was a wonderful man and he will be greatly missed. Take care and know that my love and thoughts are with all of you at this time.
I’m sorry to hear of your loss. I am sending you all love & my condolences.
Henrietta and family so sorry for your loss my condolences.
To my brother Don:
When we were boys in Glace Bay, NS, you let me hang out with you even though you were 4 years older. You took care of me as my big brother (Donnie) whenever I got in trouble. This protection continued even after we moved to Ontario.
I have never forgotten that and thankfully we were able to talk and have a laugh about this the last time we met.
Our condolences to your family.
Gord Penney & Ruth Campbell
Julie (Penney) Potter
Rob Penney
Chris Penney
Sending our condolences to you and your family on the loss of Don.
The obituary for Don is very appropriate. A gentle giant, Don was ready to pitch in and help. Years ago, when they were living in Woodstock, he built us a fence. Henrietta and I had become friends during early morning skating sessions and her family, Don included, adopted me in and I cherish the memories of those years. The entire family had a big impact on my life and I have never forgotten them, even though, regretfully, I have not kept in touch. My sincere sympathy in your loss of a wonderful husband, father and grandfather.
Don, with Henrietta you celebrated 62 years together and built a lasting legacy among your family and friends. Your love will go on and on. RIP
I am very sorry for your loss and wish your family strength during this difficult time.
Tracy Gray, Member of Parliament, Kelowna – Lake Country
Henrietta, thinking of you and your family during this difficult time. Over the years, we always cherished bumping into you and Don in the community-watching movies or dancing along at the Friday night downtown events. You two were a wonderful example of a loving and fun couple. Our thoughts are with you at this time.
He was simply the best, as his son was to me. We all miss him and share so many wonderful memories thanks to a man who held his family above everything else in life. Love you forever and ever Papa.
Joanne