Francis D. Pennypacker
November 4, 1959 - April 15, 2023
Francis D. Pennypacker, age 63, of New Castle, DE, passed away on Saturday, April 15, 2023.
Born in Bryn Mawr, PA on November 4, 1959, he was a son of the late John C. and Shirley C. (Conway) Pennypacker. Francis was a 1977 graduate of William Penn High School and then later earned his Engineering degree in 1981 from the University of Delaware. He proudly served in the United States Navy, retiring as a commander.
Francis loved to spend his free time outdoors. He spent countless hours by the water or kayaking, a great passion. Francis ventured internationally to kayak in several locations, including New Zealand. He greatly enjoyed exploring new countries or relaxing with a good book. Above all, Francis cherished time spent with his family.
In addition to his parents, Francis was preceded in death by his daughter, Colleen Pennypacker. He is survived by his siblings, Robert John Pennypacker of New Castle and Ann P. Thielke (Pat) of Houston, TX; nephew, Rick Thielke (Claire); and niece, Janet Thielke.
All services will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Francis’ memory to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516 or online by clicking here.
Michelle LaMarr
Ann and family,
So sorry for your loss. May the Lord comfort you and give you peace. May you be blessed with the good memories of time spent with your brother and knowing he is free of struggle and in a better place.
Love you, Michelle
Chuck and Bonnie Temple
Our hearts were saddened to hear of Frank’s sudden passing. But now he’s with his beloved Colleen, whom he loved and missed so deeply. He will be missed. Love and prayers and hugs to Bob and Ann and family. He will not be forgotten.
Britt Heisig
Fare winds and following seas, my friend. Britt
Deborah Nalchajian
My deepest sympathies to your family. Frank was a kind and decent person. I enjoyed working with him. He will be missed.
May his memory be a blessing,
Debbie
Mary Lou
So sad to hear of Frank’s passing. Wishing him peace with Shirley and Jack.
Maria Medeiros
Our sympathies to the family during this sad time. Frank was a great colleague and friend.
Maria and Mark
Omar S Ahmadi
Ann and Family,
I want to express my sorrow and condolences to you and your family , we will miss him.
Serena Conway Straub
We remember Francis’ laugh first.. if you know him, you know it well. His desire to travel, his intelligence and his engaging conversations were hallmarks of my cousin. I always thought Francis as my parents’ favorite child 🙂 For so many years, Francis and my dad solved all the world’s problems over Thanksgiving dinner. The respectful way they would listen and learn from each other: Francis belonged at the adult table long before most kids. He visited my husband and I while we were living in Prague a few years ago. What a gift. I am so grateful for that time: Sharing experiences and hearing his laugh again. My father had long since passed, and Francis could relay stories about him like it was yesterday. I will do my best to honor his spirit. Francis was brilliant and we were blessed to know him. Be happy. Be at peace. With love, Serena and Steve Straub
Daniel Tam
My sincere condolences to your family. May God grant you peace during this difficult time. Frank was a joy to work with because he was the voice of reason. Most of all, I will remember his kindness and smile. Blessings, Dan
Bill Holloway
Ann and family-
Please accept our heartfelt condolences on the passing of our friend Fran. Although it has been many years since we last communicated, I remember Fran as a friend and gentleman. May God Grant you all peace and solace during this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Bill
Barbara Cooke Goodman
Franky will be sadly missed I graduated with him from the class of 77 surely will miss him RIPFranny
Joseph Gorman
From one submariner and WPHS to another, sailor rest your oar, we have the watch.
Kristin Grehawick
My thoughts and prayers are with your family. Frank will be missed by many.
Sincerely,
Kristin
Sandi & Alan
Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Ann and Bob. Sandi & Alan
Eric Dow
My sincere condolences for your loss. There are probably a handful of people that I’ve worked with over my 40+ year career that are memorable for being both true professionals and wonderful human beings, Frank will be remembered fondly as one of those very fine individuals.
Eric Dow
Leo Dominique
Sincere condolences on the loss of a great individual! And to a true friend & shipmate, know that you will be sorely missed.
Airan J Perez
We were so saddened for your loss. Our deepest condolences to your family. We will miss Frank’ s humor and his infectious laughter. Airan and Ignacio
David Drumheller
Frank worked as a technical support contractor in the Office of Naval Research Weapons and Payloads Division where he assisted program managers in the planning and execution of science and technology programs for torpedoes, undersea vehicles and ship maintenance systems. He was a well-respect member of the team, and found great satisfaction in helping us “govies” get the job done. But for me, he also became a good friend. My duty day often began with a lively discussion of current events over a cup of coffee while sitting in Frank’s cubical. Thanks, Frank, for the memories. You were one of the most kind and selfless people I’ve known. I hope you’re finally at peace.
Laurie (Pennypacker) Hickey
It’s so sad. Serena, I have to agree about his laugh. I talked to him a few weeks ago for hours. He was reminiscing a lot and would laugh. That laugh, so familiar. He will be missed. Rest in peace❤️
Luis Molina
I am very saddened by the news of Frank’s passing. My condolences to his family and friends. I worked with Frank at ONR for several years and I always found him to be levelheaded, a consummate professional, and compassionate. He also had a humor and wit which always helped to liven up the office. Fair Winds and Following Seas Frank.
Tammy Parsons
Ann, I’m so very sorry to learn about Frans passing. I remember him very well growing up. I’m sending my deepest sympathy to you and the family.
Jennifer Pate
Dearest Ann,
My mother and I hold all of you in prayer and are thankful for his service. We love you!
Cara
Dear Ann and family,
My sincere apologies for your loss. Frank was a fantastic landlord and I appreciated his kindness and attention. I hope you all find some peace and closure during this difficult time.
Cara
Helen Thielke
My love and prayers are with your family during this difficult time.
Gertrude Fleisher
Have my condolences. May u sleep in the bosom of the Lord. Rest in peace
Clifford Snyder
So sorry to hear Francis died. Terrific person from a great family. I remember living next door to them as a kid.
Kent McAllister
It is so sad to see Frank’s passing. He was a great friend and mentor when we served together at USSTRATCOM. Condolences to the family.