William “John” Penny Jr., age 88, passed away peacefully, going home to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, April 27, 2026.

John was born on August 2, 1937, to his parents, William John Penny Sr. and Clara Edith (née Ritter). He was raised in Clare, Michigan, alongside his siblings, where he developed a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors and a strong sense of family.

John proudly enlisted in the United States Army and served his country honorably. He was later released from service prior to deployment during the Cuban Missile Crisis.

On December 1, 1961, John married the love of his life, Mary Doxtader. Together, they shared a life full of adventure, including time spent living out west and traveling together. John had a deep love for the outdoors—he was an avid fisherman who enjoyed charter trips to Canada, and he also found joy in hunting, outdoor cooking, and spending time in nature.

Above all, John cherished his faith and had a strong love for the Lord Jesus. His love for the Lord led he and Mary into fulltime Christian ministry serving at Camp Barakel, John Wesley College, and the Michigan Good News Camp. After leaving ministry, they became active members at East Bay Calvary Church in Traverse City, Michigan.

John is lovingly survived by his wife, Mary; his sisters, Thelma Dysinger, Betty Kotch; his brother, Ted Penny; his daughter Julia Kovalcik; and two grandchildren, Nica and Jonathan Chase; and numerous other nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Lois Gibis; and his brothers, Robert, Richard, and Charles Penny.

A service to honor and celebrate John’s life will be held on Tuesday, May 19, at East Bay Calvary Church, beginning at 11:00 a.m., with visitation starting one hour prior.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed towards East Bay Calvary Church.