Donn Michael Penney Obituary

Donn Michael Penney, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and Vietnam veteran, passed away peacefully on February 12th, 2024 at U of M in Ann Arbor, Michigan, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Saginaw on January 16, 1949 to Hugh and Betty (Purkis) Penney, his parents instilled in him the values of honor and duty. Donn was a man of great integrity and unwavering commitment. He demonstrated strength, perseverance and stubborn determination that stayed with him until he decided his adventure was complete. In addition to serving his country in the United States Navy, Donn was a devoted family man. He leaves behind his beautiful and loving wife of 53 years, Debbie (Iles); son Chad (Terri) Penney; daughters Shannon Penney and Rebecca (Chad) Randolph. As well as some of the best grandchildren a grandpa could ever have: Kayla Baldwin, Carter Penney, Kennedy Penney, Kyle Templeton, Brandan Price, Garrett Randolph, Grant Penney, Mahra Randolph, Maxton Randolph and 2 great-grandchildren. Donn is also survived by his siblings: Art (Dawn) Penney, Barbara (Dan) Wardrop, Carol Rard, Betsy Taylor, along with many nieces and nephews. Donn held a special place in his heart for his fur babies, Mindy and Dexter. His love for his family knew no bounds - he was their rock through life's trials and triumphs. Donn’s legacy extends beyond his immediate family - he had an impact on countless others throughout his lifetime. He will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him. As a man of many words and opinions that were filled with immense wisdom, Donn lived a life that exemplified dedication to duty and selflessness towards others. Donn enjoyed his long weekends at their seasonal campsite, fishing, hunting (but only twice), recycling, sorting recyclables, creating wooden works of craftsmanship for his family and gardening (depending on who you ask). The loss of such an extraordinary individual is immeasurable, but we take solace in knowing that his spirit lives on through the memories we hold dear. To quote the great Frank Sinatra, Donn would say, "I did it my way!". To honor Donn’s life, the family will receive friends and family on Saturday, February 17, 2024 from 12:00PM until 2:00PM at the Hampton Funeral Home, 3380 W. Carleton Road, Hillsdale with a funeral service to follow at 2:00PM. Pastor James Eckart officiating. Interment private. Please visit www.hamptonfuneralhomes.com to sign the guestbook and/or send a condolence to the family.

Hampton Funeral Homes – Hillsdale

517-437-0605

His wife Debbie Iles Penney wrote: I lost my best friend and love of almost 53 years today.  After another heart attack and fighting to breath all the time he decided to have his LVAD turned off.  He went to U of M and picked a day and time to turn it off. He passed peacefully today surrounded by family. He’s now free of all the wires.  We got to have him for almost 5 more years because of the LVAD but in the end it was COPD that took him.