Bernard Charles Penokie
September 2, 1925 — July 6, 2008
Bernard Charles Penokie, age 82 of L'Anse, Michigan passed away on Sunday, July 6, 2008 at Baraga County Memorial Hospital.
Bernard was born September 2, 1925 in Calumet, Michigan son of the late George and Helen (Eister) Penokie. He was raised in L'Anse and graduated from L'Anse High School in 1943. Bernard was in the US Army from 1944-46 as Staff Sergeant. He graduated from Michigan Tech in 1949 with a degree in Electrical Engineering. Bernard married Virginia Paquette on February 18, 1950 at Sacred Heart Church in L'Anse. Bernard was an electrical contractor, owning Penokie Electric for over 50 years. He also worked as an electrical engineer and then plant engineer from 1960-91 at Celotex.
Bernard was a member of Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, Knights of Columbus, American Legion Post 144 and past commander, VFW Post 3897, L'Anse Lions, Eagles Aerie #2287, Ottawa Sportsman Club, NECA (National Electrical Contractors Association), Treasurer of L'Anse Bowling League for 25 years, and former President at L'Anse Golf Club. In 1989 he received the L'Anse Area Schools Distinguished Alumnus Award. He enjoyed bowling, traveling, and golf.
Surviving are his wife Virginia of L'Anse; four sons, George O. (Patricia) Penokie of Rochester, MN, Kenneth C. (Shirley) Penokie of Escanaba, MI; James (Jennifer) Penokie of L'Anse; John R.(Amy) Penokie of Green Bay, WI; sisters, Kathryn Busch of St Clair Shores, MI, Joan (Ray) Simpson of Chicago, IL; five grandchildren, Tristan, Ethan, Eric, Hunter, and Darrin; special friend Kaylee.
He is preceded in death by his parents and a sister Mary Thompson.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 8th from 5-8 pm with parish prayers at 6:30 pm followed by a rosary service at 7:00 pm by the Knights of Columbus. The Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday at 11 AM at Sacred Heart Church with visitation one hour prior to the service at the church. Fr. Augustin George will officiate. Burial will be in the L'Anse Evergreen Cemetery. The Baraga County Area Veterans will conduct Military Services at the graveside under the direction of the American Legion Post 444. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in his memory to the charity of your choice. The Jacobson Funeral Home in L'Anse is assisting the family.