Charles Butler Pennell

Charles Butler Pennell, 82, of Springfield, passed away at 8:37 a.m. on Saturday, February 16, 2019 at St. Johns Hospital. Charles was born on May 31, 1936 in Springfield, the son of William Leon and Lillian Butler Pennell. He married Janis Ann Tobin on June 27, 1969. Charles attended barber college, as well as Lincoln Land Community College. He served his country in the United States Marine Corps and the Army Reserves. Charles owned and operated Pennells Barbershop prior to pursuing his professional passion as a homicide detective with the Springfield Police Department. During his time at SPD, he was the recipient of four William Herndon Awards. He then went on to retire from the Illinois State Fire Marshal. However, the true passion of his life was the love and adoration of his wife of 50 years, Janis, and the family he made with her. If you knew Charles well, you knew he loved to tell an old joke that only a few would understand and that some of you are still trying to figure out. In his spare time, he enjoyed rooting for the Cubs, playing golf, fishing, hunting, and spending time with his dogs. Charles was preceded in death by his parents and a daughter, Maria. He is survived by his wife, Janis Pennell of Springfield; four children, Penny Pennell and Kevin (wife, Ashley) Pennell of Chatham, Thomas Pennell of Pekin, and Lisa McQueen of New Berlin; several grandchildren, including Kaleb and Kyla; brother, William L. (wife, Carol) Pennell of Chatham; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Cremation will be provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center prior to ceremonies. Graveside Ceremony: 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 26, 2019 at Stout Cemetery with Fr. Jeff Laible officiating. Military honors will be provided by the Interveterans Burial Detail of Sangamon County and the Department of Defense. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital, P.O. Box 1000, Dept. 142, Memphis, TN 38148 or Shriners Hospital for Children, 4400 Clayton Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110. The family of Charles Butler Pennell is being served by Butler Funeral Home - Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield.