Donald "Don" Penzien

Hendersonville, TN - On Monday, January 1, 2024 Donald R Penzien, devoted husband and loving father of three, passed away at the age of 85 in Hendersonville, Tennessee. Don was born in Dryden, Michigan on June 24, 1938. He moved to Howell, Michigan when he was in 8th grade, and shortly thereafter met the love of his life, Judy. They were married nine days short of 65 years. He graduated from Howell High School, and worked for Ford Motor Company for 30 years. After retiring he enjoyed woodworking, traveling, and spending time with his family. He was an avid amateur photographer. He especially enjoyed and appreciated the amazing intricacies of nature which were reflected in many of his photographs that he shared with family and friends.

In 2001 he moved to Aiken, South Carolina. He loved his new hometown, and relished relating Aiken's special charms to everyone he met. It was in Aiken where he fell in love with Pickleball, years before it became the popular game it is today.

Don was very patriotic, and flew the American flag proudly. He enjoyed striking up conversations with people he met along the way (on the beach, at a concert, when asking for directions, etc.). He met one of his dear friends while walking back from a campground bathroom in the Grand Tetons. Don was soft-spoken but had a wicked sense of humor that stayed strong until the very end. There was always a lot of laughter whenever he was around.

Don was preceded in death by his parents Don and Elizabeth Penzien, and his brother, Richard Penzien. He is survived by his wife, Judy; sons Kory, Craig, and Craig's wife Lauri; daughter Kiya; grandchildren Kayla Penzien, Ericha Penzien, Quinn Penzien, Carter Penzien, Caris Goodnough, Keagan Penzien, Collin Sibley, Lauren Sibley, and Kailee Sibley; and great grandchildren Arlie Henley, Judah Henley, Felix Goodnough, Otto Goodnough, Hutson Penzien.

Memorial Services will be held at The New Covenant Presbyterian Church in Aiken, SC on Saturday, January 20 at 11:00 . Donald "Don" Penzien