May 20, 1941 - July 16, 2009 John, husband, dad, grandpa (Grumpy Claus) and last but not least Papa is now in the big casino in the sky after a courageous battle with lung cancer. Predeceased by his parents William Penko and Anne Kopechanski and numerous aunts and uncles. Survived by his wife of 47 years Georgina (Buddy) Rose Skinner, four children Darren (Marie) (Lexi, Billy and Maddie), Anne (Ed Kauppi) (Kyle and his wife Lea), Samantha (Daniel) (great grandchild Zyrus) Meghan (Ryan), Dale (Bev) (Richard and Kelsey), Aimee (Bradford, ON), brothers and sisters Doreen (Niel Simpson), Daniel (Wendy) (BC), James Penko, Debbie (Cory Waisanen) and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. There will be an open house memorial tea held on Tuesday, July 21st, from 1pm - 3pm at Corpus Christi Catholic Church in the meeting room. Prayers will be said for the repose of his soul at the 12:15 mass for those wishing to attend. His family would like to thank everyone for their care and understanding. A special thanks to Dr. G. Davis and Dr. D. Dueck, the VON as well as the nursing staff at St. Joseph's Hospice. Thank you to family and friends for their support and compassion in our difficult times. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Northern Cancer Fund. "We will always miss you, save us a seat in the big casino in the sky!" Online condolences may be made through
www.nwfainc.com"
Published by The Thunder Bay Chronicle Journal on Jul. 18, 2009.