Lois J. Penner

Lois J. Penner, 81, died Monday, April 27, 2026, at Kidron Bethel Healthcare in North Newton. She was born on November 27, 1944, in Halstead, Kansas to Daniel and Dora (Abrahams) Thiessen. On August 28, 1964, she married Ray A. Penner at Huffnungsau Mennonite Church near Inman, Kansas, and he survives.

Lois was a member of Faith Mennonite Church in Newton and enjoyed a long and rewarding career in the CTE program at Newton High School. Lois especially enjoyed spending time with two special friend groups; her college friends and her co-workers at NHS. She gathered often with these groups over the years, but during the time that Lois lived at Kidron Bethel these two groups of special ladies maintained their friendship by visiting Lois at Kidron and spending time with her weekly.

Lois and Ray appreciated the opportunity to travel to various countries of the world, enjoying the different experiences of each one. They visited Japan, New Zealand, South Africa, Germany and Austria, to name a few. They especially enjoyed their time in Alaska, appreciating its natural beauty and wildlife.

Lois is survived by her husband Ray; sons Shawn (Lynette) Penner and Corey (Staci) Penner; sister Vera (Richard) Williams and four grandchildren - Damon Penner, Colten Penner, Laniese (Luis) Galvan, and Chase Penner. She is preceded in death by her parents and sister Joann (Gary) Regehr.

The family would like to recognize Gordon Penner as a special friend and helpful aide to both Lois and Ray throughout Lois’ time at Kidron Bethel Healthcare.

Memorial service will be 1:00 p.m., Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Faith Mennonite Church with Pastor Joel Schroeder presiding. The family will have a Faspa and time of sharing and fellowship following the service.

Private family interment will be in Greenwood Cemetery, Newton.

Memorial may be made to Faith Mennonite Church and left with Petersen Funeral Home.