Charles Junior Pennington

Charles (Chuck) Pennington passed away peacefully at home on June 19, 2024, after a brief, but brave, battle with cancer. He was born on May 7, 1954, to Charles and Elaine Pennington in Hastings.

Chuck worked as a lathe operator at Flexfab for 45 years, where he was known for his hearty laugh and great skill. Following his retirement, Chuck found joy in giving back to the community. He volunteered two days a week as a docent at The Gilmore Car Museum, sharing his passion for cars and participating in their special events.

Stained glass and car shows were among Chuck's favorite hobbies. He was an avid fan of the Beach Boys and enjoyed spending time with his family while indulging in popcorn and watching Nascar races. He enjoyed league bowling at the Hastings Bowl for nearly 50 years and annually attended the summer race at MIS with good friends for more than 30 years. Golfing with daughter Emma was one of his favorite pastimes. Chuck's proudest accomplishments included being awarded the Melvin Jones Fellow from The Hastings Lions Club in 2008, serving as the President of the Hastings Car Club for over 10 years, and selflessly contributing to various volunteer projects at the Commission on Aging. In recent years, he embraced the role of Meals on Wheels Santa Claus, bringing joy to many.

Chuck is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Tammy (Foltz) Pennington, their
daughter Emma (Alex) Pennington and his eldest daughter from a previous marriage, Jay (Tim) Loper. Also surviving are: grandchildren Kirstain Philips and Drew Phillips; great-grandson Kai Phillips; sister Judy (Garry) Crawford; brother-in-law Dave Foltz; sisters-in-law Kim (Foltz) Zastrow and Louise Foltz; his dear nieces and nephews; and many special cousins.

Chuck was preceded in death by: his parents, sister Janice (McNutt) Drum; mother-in-law Carla Foltz and brother-in-law Brad Foltz.

Chuck was the original "nice guy," always willing to help wherever needed. He jumped cars, changed tires, moved pianos, cleaned gutters, usually for complete strangers. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love and devotion will live on in the hearts of all those he touched.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Gilmore Car Museum, 6865 W. Hickory Road, Hickory Corners, on Saturday, July 20. Family and friends are invited to visit and share memories between 5:00 and 7:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Chuck's honor to the Muscle Car Gallery at the Gilmore Car Museum.  Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence visit www.girrbachfuneralhome.net.