Louis Penning

Louis Henry Penning, a distinguished and well-respected businessman from Atchison, passed away peacefully on April 1, 2026, at Atchison Senior Village. Born on July 17, 1937, at Atchison Hospital, his life was marked by dedication, a strong work ethic, and an enduring commitment to his family and the community.

A proud graduate of Maur Hill Prep in 1955, Louis also attended Guards Business College in St. Joseph, Missouri, and St. Benedict's College in Atchison. His formative years included education at St. Joseph's Grade School, where his love for learning was cultivated. Louis served honorably in the Air National Guard, demonstrating a sense of duty that defined many aspects of his character.

Louis was best known for his accomplishments as a businessman, owning and operating Squire “606” in Atchison from 1962 until his retirement in 2000. His sharp wit and strong work ethic not only helped his business thrive but also became a legacy he passed on to his children and family.

Beyond his professional achievements, Louis was an avid sports fan who cherished following the Kansas City Chiefs, Jayhawk and Wildcat football and basketball teams. He found joy in attending basketball games at Maur Hill Mount Academy for many years. In his leisure, he was passionate about gardening and woodworking, dedicating time to repairing and restoring countless pieces of antique furniture, activities that brought him great satisfaction and pride.

Those who were fortunate to know Louis remember his wit, good humor, and delightful tastes—he had a fondness for ice cream, peanut clusters, M&Ms, steak, and fried chicken dinners, which were often the backdrop to happy family gatherings.

Louis is survived by his beloved wife, Irene “Patsy” (Ernzen) Penning. Their love story began in 1959 with a memorable first date that included dinner and dancing, a romance that blossomed into a marriage which would have celebrated its sixty-fifth anniversary this October. He is also lovingly remembered by his children Amy (Mike) Rindom, Laura (Shayne) Denton, Stacy (Ken) Mercer, Scott (Kim) Penning, and Midge (Bryan) Botts; along with thirteen grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren with number thirteen due next month.

He was preceded in death by his devoted parents, Thomas John Penning and Elizabeth Mary "Elsie" (Koester) Penning, as well as his siblings Leonard (Ethie) Penning, Dorothy (Hank) Scholz, and Gerald (Pat) Penning.

His life will be celebrated Monday, April 6, 2026, with all services at St. Benedict Church. A rosary will begin at 9:30 a.m., followed by visitation at 10:00 a.m. and Mass of Christian burial at 11:00 a.m. He will be laid to rest at St. Patrick’s Cemetery and a lunch to continue to share memories and one of his favorite meals will follow at St. Joseph Church lower level. Memorials may be left to St. Patrick's Cemetery Endowment in care of the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home.