I was one of John's  classmates and friends until my family left Yarrow after we had completed grade 8 (1959). I spent many Sunday afternoons at his place, exploring the "Bush" , checking out the animals on their farm, and just visiting. He was an easygoing, gentle fellow who got along with everyone. A few years ago he obtained my email from a mutual acquaintance, and we reconnected in person, but mostly via email. I miss corresponding with him and wish to express my condolences to you his family.
 Ed Lenzmann (Winnipeg, MB)

Ian, Jason and all other family members,
I am sorry for your loss and extend my sincere condolances. I regret I could not be there for the celebration of John's life but my thoughts and prayers were with you.

John and I were friends as long as I can remember. His parents lived near the east end of Lumsden Road and we lived near the west end of Lumsden Road, only a half mile or so apart. We did a lot of exploring on Vedder mountain and along the Vedder river together. Those memories will be with me as long as I live!!  Recently, after we could no longer communicate by email, my only contact with John was once or twice a year when we went to Chilliwack to visit my sister (we live in Brooks, Alberta) I always made sure to visit John at least once every trip. John's recollection of the past always amazed me. He remembered things I had long forgotten. I will miss that about him! I am so glad he is no longer suffering, and I look forward to meeting him again in Heaven when my time here on earth is done.

Our time with John was meaningful, fun and together we grew closer to Jesus.  John was a unique individual who impacted my life positively.  For a time he would call me Monday morning about 9:30 to talk about Sunday's sermon and service, I could picture him sitting in the LA office with a coffee.  One day he said "guess who?"  I said "John you always call me at home on my day off Monday."  From then on he called the office every Tuesday at about 9:30 and said "It's Tuesday, guess who."   I enjoyed John's sense of humour, respect his quiet ways of serving others and caring.  Condolences to Jason/Andea and Ian.  
Pastor Greg & Shelly Dermody

John and I began as friends when we lived in the "Bush" east of Yarrow.  The Wiens and Penner boys often played together in the fields and woods, particularly on long summer nights.  He was a very gentle soul, and once told me that with all his health problems, he would endure whatever came his way.

Jason, Ian & family, we were so sad to hear of your Dad's passing . We were blessed to have had him in our lives and will miss him dearly. He always had kind words and encouragement and we will always have fond memories of him. 
Dolly Brown , Sandra & Rob Mills and families .

John was a gentle soul who had some very difficult time periods in this lifetime. John and I were classmates at Sharon High in Yarrow BC from Grades 6 through 12. We laughed a great deal and shared many Sunday faspas together. He tended to have an optimistic, forgiving, and courageous nature and often expressed his desire to have a High School reunion. I trust he is now at peace. Mel Martens

Jason and Ian I'm so sorry for your loss. I have many fond memories of your dad from when I worked at The Birchwood and when I attended Sardis Community Church. He was a man of great courage and was always smiling despite his health issues. He had such a good sense of humor and could always make me laugh. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Sincerely Marla Healy

so sad to hear of John's passing. I have so many great memories of his friendship forged in Milden Sask. when I pastored there.  He lived with courage, and hope even in the face of great difficulties.  I will remember him with great fondness.  Pastor Murray Boldt

OBITUARY

Johann "John" Franz Heinrich Penner

3 May, 1945 – 30 May, 2013

Woodlawn Mt. Cheam Funeral Home

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