Gary Lee Pennell

January 13, 2024

Gary Lee Pennell, of Akron Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on January 13, 2024, after a brief illness. Gary was born on November 15, 1938, to Elmer and Ruth Pennell in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

Gary joined the United States Air Force in 1957 and served his country for 20 years rising to the rank of Master Sergeant. In 1958, he met Marianne Catherine Snyder and they wed January of 1959, going on to have four children, David Michael, Daniel Mark, Cynthia Lee, and Cheryl Lynn. Gary and Marianne recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary.

Gary was a force of nature, determined to provide for his family and give them the life he felt they deserved. His family meant more to him than anything else in the world.

Gary was passionate about fishing, family and traveling. He was able to fulfill a lifelong dream of fishing in Alaska and took several family members with him on his trips. He enjoyed family holiday celebrations, special occasions, bus trips with his wife, camping and weekly gatherings.

Anyone who knew him knew that he was the most loving father and husband a family could ask for. Gary was predeceased by his father Elmer “Bud” Pennell, mother, Ruth Templeton-Pennell, sister-in-law Sandra S. Pennell. He is survived by wife Marianne C. Pennell, son David M. Pennell and wife, son Daniel M. Pennell and wife, daughter Cynthia L. Pennell, daughter Cheryl L. Bolton and husband, brother Leon D. Pennell, cherished family friend Rob S. Phillips, 7 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.

A memorial service will take place on Saturday January 27, 2024, at Charles F. Snyder funeral Home, 3110 Lititz Pike, Lititz, PA at 3pm. Family invites friends to a visitation one hour prior beginning at 2pm. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude’s Hospital, Hospice of York and Make A Wish Foundation.