Frank G. Penkevich, Jr.

Frank Penkevich, Jr., 88, died April 26, 2015, at Hospice House of Mid-Michigan in Lansing following several years of failing health.

Frank was born on February 22, 1927, in Stambaugh, Michigan to Frank and Anna Penkevich. He was the second of 6 boys. He joined the U.S. Navy in January 1945, and upon graduation from Great Lakes Naval Station was assigned to the European Theater for the last months of World War II and the occupation of Europe. While stationed in England he met the love of his life, Jean Mumford. They married on April 12, 1947, in London, England and following his honorable discharge from the Navy in November of that year, returned to make their home in Stambaugh.

Frank worked as an underground iron miner for M.A. Hanna and Inland Steel for 25 years. After the mines closed, he became an MSHA mine safety inspector where he inspected coal, iron, salt and surface mines and quarries in both Michigan and Kentucky, until his retirement in 1995.

Frank loved nothing more than deer hunting with his dad, brothers and his sons in the U.P. His annual return to Iron County every November was a highlight of his year. During his retirement years, he also became an avid reader.

No one could tell stories like Frank, often telling of his many years working in the mines and the mischief he and his brothers would get in to while growing up in Stambaugh.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his wife Jean of Lansing, brother Tony Penkevich (Iron River, MI), sons David (Sally) Penkevich (Eaton Rapids, MI), Steve (Barbara) Penkevich (New Hudson, MI), Mike (Laurie) Penkevich (Ada, MI) and daughters Debra (Rick) Wightman (Fremont, MI) and Jean (Dave) Abbott (Bellingham, WA), 11 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Tom, Jim, Martin, and Ted and an infant sister, Ann Elizabeth.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. this Friday, May 1, 2015, at St. Gerard Catholic Church, 4437 W. Willow Hwy., Lansing, MI.  Visitation will be one hour before the service at the church. Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel is handling all arrangements: www.estesleadley.com. In lieu of flowers, donations in Frank’s name can be made to: Hospice House of Mid-Michigan, 1210 West Saginaw Street, Lansing, Michigan 48915.

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4 Messages to “Frank G. Penkevich, Jr.

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Stephanie Penkivich Cruz
April 28, 2015 at 12:10 pm

It is a great loss that another Penkivich/Penkevich/Penkivech light has gone out. I remember staying with Uncle Frank & Auntie Jean many summers when Mom was either in the hospital or our parents were looking for another place to live once Dad was out of the Air Force. I felt safe & loved there. Memories too of the Golden Lake cabin & picnics with lots of family. Heaven is having one heck of a polka party!!! As for Auntie Jean, Butchie, Debbie, Steve and Mike–I am so sorry for your loss!!!

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Stephanie Penkivich Cruz
April 28, 2015 at 1:23 pm

Jeanne, I am so sorry I forgot you!!! Please accept my apologies and condolences!!! Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you all as you lay your father to rest.

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Katherine Penkivich Ravnik
April 29, 2015 at 8:43 am

Aunty Jean & family,
I am regretfully sorry that Robyn and I will not be able to attend.
We send you our love and condolences for a great loss.
God bless you all you are in our prayers.

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Bob & Sharon Ongaro
April 29, 2015 at 3:20 pm

I have not seen Frank in many years, it may have been since I lived in Stambo. I have pleasant memories of Frank, Jeanne, his brothers and his family.
My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
I am very sorry for your loss.

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