Keith Allen Penrod

Keith Allen Penrod, 71, passed away on Sunday, June 17, 2024, at Memorial Hospital South Bend after a brief illness.
Keith was born on November 30, 1952, in South Bend to Howard and Evelyn (Hoffman) Penrod. Despite being given only 48 hours to live at birth due to Cerebral Palsy, Keith defied all odds and lived a life filled with love, laughter, dedication, and inspiration. He faced his challenges with remarkable courage and maintained an upbeat personality throughout his life.
Keith graduated from Laville High School where he earned more letters in sports than any other athlete, serving as the manager for nearly every sport. He remained a devoted supporter of the Laville Lancers, attending as many games as possible.
An avid Notre Dame fan, Keith became deeply integrated into the "Fighting Irish family," forging strong bonds with the football, basketball and hockey programs. He was granted special access to practices and games, often driving his customized golf cart adorned with the Fighting Irish theme song. Coaches, players, and fans knew him as Notre Dame's #1 Fan.
Keith's resilience and positive spirit touched all who knew him. He approached life without complaint, making friends even with those who initially treated him differently. In his humble way, Keith loved to sign off his messages "Just Me"-just a good person with a pure heart who is always ready to be your friend.
Keith loved good food but miraculously never gained a pound. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and his extended Notre Dame family. His legacy of courage and strength will endure for generations.
Keith is survived by his mother, Evelyn Penrod; siblings Sandra (Larry Roberts) Stewart, Linda (David Swihart) Bella, Brian Penrod, Kevin (Linda) Penrod, and Dale Penrod; close friends Katie and John Anthony; many nieces and nephews; and numerous friends from his "Fighting Irish family." He was preceded in death by his father, Howard Penrod.
Visitation for Keith will be held from 4 pm to 7 pm on Thursday, June 20, 2024, at the Palmer Funeral Home-North Liberty Chapel, 202 N. Main St., North Liberty. Burial of his cremated remains will take place at a later date at Cedar Grove Cemetery, Notre Dame.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Keith's name may be made to the Cerebral Palsy Foundation, 3 Columbus Circle, 15th Floor, New York, NY 10019.
Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.
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