Fred E. Penna

June 10, 1936 — February 11, 2025

Fred E. Penna, 88, of South Beloit, IL, passed away on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, in his home after battling cancer for more than a year. Born June 10, 1936, in Chicago, IL, the son of Michael and Margaret (McRae) Penna. Fred received his bachelor’s degree from Elmhurst College. Employed as a chemist by Hach Chemical for more than 20 years, most recently he owned and operated his own business, F.E. Penna Company for over 10 years before retiring. Previous residences were in Lisle, IL, Naperville, IL, Ames, IA, Casper, WY, and St. Charles, MO, where he made many close friends. He was a global traveler and a travel guide for many friends and family throughout the years. His family and friends meant the world to him and his home was always open for visits. Fred loved gardening, reading, doing crosswords, and watching Jeopardy, Old Westerns, Golden Girls and M.A.S.H. Avid Chicago Bear and Cubs fan. He was one of the smartest men we knew. Survivors include his children, Jim Penna, Patty (Rick) Hall, Liz (Frank) Bleers, and Laura Penna; stepdaughter, Angie (Dave) Pitman; grandchildren, Frank, Ramon, Ana, Sandra, Mike, and Jack; many great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews; sisters, Flora Johnson, and Margaret Lopez. Predeceased by his parents; two wives, Gay Degen and Phyllis Wadley; sister, Jeanette Penna; brothers, Mike, Frank, and Alex; brothers-in-law, Charlie Johnson and Ray Lopez. The family wishes to thank the staff at Beloit Health System UW Cancer Center and Beloit Regional Hospice for their care and compassion.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Cremation rites accorded. Arrangements by Delehanty Funeral Home, 401 River Lane, Loves Park, IL. In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be established in his name.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Fred E. Penna, please visit our flower store.

Send a Card

Guestbook

Visits: 0

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.