Edward Joseph Penney

Edward J. Penney, age 89 of Coleman died Friday, October 4, 2013 at the Toni and Trish House. Ed was born in Midland on January 22, 1924 to the late George and Millie (Draves) Penney. He graduated from Midland High School in 1942 and attended Michigan State University for six weeks on an agricultural scholarship. On January 26, 1946 Ed married Clara Moe in Midland. After nearly 58 years of marriage, Clara predeceased her husband on December 25, 2003. The Penney's were Dairy Farmers in Midland County until 1973 when they moved to Coleman and continued farming until in 2002. After retirement from farming, Ed became a huge gardener, raising vegetables and taking great pride in his flowers all around the property, his specialty being giant sunflowers. Ed and Clara were inducted into the Michigan Hall of Fame for Farmers. Ed was a lifetime member of the FFA. He was an avid fan of the Tigers, MSU Football and Basketball, rarely ever missing a game. He loved to feed and watch the birds, listen and dance to classic country music.

Ed is survived by his 6 children, Judy Kiser, Sharon Roberson, Carla Wilson, all of Midland, Deb Patten of Grand Rapids, Doug (Cathy) Penney of Coleman and Ray (Carol) Penney of Barryton; adopted son, Dave (Jackie) Geeck of Coleman; 14 grandchildren;16 great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by 4 brothers; 3 sisters; sons in law, Russ Kiser, Wilbur Roberson and Larry Wilson.

The family would like to express great gratitude to Dr. Robert Jones and his staff. Also the nurses on floors 3 & 5 for the wonderful care of their dad. And a special thank you to Rochelle and Caitlin Geeck for spending the late nights with their Grandpa Ed.

Funeral services for Mr. Penney will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday October 9, 2013 from Faith United Methodist Church in Coleman with Reverend Caroline Hart officiating. Interment will be in Midland Memorial Gardens. Family will receive friends at the Wilson MILLER Funeral Home on Tuesday from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8:00 p.m. and at the church on Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Memorials may be offered to Faith United Methodist Church or the Toni and Trish House. Personal messages of condolence to the family may be offered at www.wilson-miller.com