After complications from Parkinson's Keith passed away peacefully on October 5th, 2022 with his family by his side at the age of 75. Keith leaves behind his wife of 52 years and the love of his life, Judy. Loving father of Kent (Heather), Kyle, Kera (Chad Leblanc), Kaelan (Kyle Henderson), and Keith (Kylie). He will be greatly missed by his 8 adoring grandchildren. Predeceased by his parents Jack and Edith Penney. Survived by his brother John (Dorothy) Penney.
Born in Montreal on 29 April, 1947 Keith was always outgoing and adventurous, leading him to a long and successful career in the RCAF. Throughout his career he earned a reputation for his leadership and changing the Canadian Armed Forces for the better with a sincere regard for people. Some of the highlights of his service were Chairman of the Shearwater International Air Show, Command Engineer for Air Command during the Gulf War, creation of the Airfield Engineering Squadrons and the RCAF Readiness Challenge Competition Team, implementing the Defence Ethics Program, and special assignment to the Vice Chief of Defence Staff as the Chief Management Renewal Services responsible for spearheading positive culture change in the military.
Over the many postings across Canada the Penney Clan was always very involved in their adopted community. As a father he volunteered for all his children’s activities: hockey dad, Scouts dad, dancing dad, swimming dad, band dad, and much more. Keith had many talents and passions throughout his life. He loved hockey, oil painting, square dancing, completely rebuilt an Austin Mini car, woodworking, was always working on a DIY project, karate, and creating stained glass. He was a very proud member of the RCMP and Ottawa Police Pipe Bands. He was well known for his love of good food, a pint of Guinness and his sweet tooth.
A special thank you to Erica, Michelle and the rest of the staff at R1S at the Rideau and Perley Veterans’ Health Centre for the care and compassion they provided the Penney family.
Family and friends are invited to a visitation at Beechwood, Funeral, Cemetery and Cremation Services (280 Beechwood Ave.) on Saturday, October 22nd, 2022 from 11am to 1pm followed by a memorial service and interment in the National Military Cemetery of Canada. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Parkinson Canada Home - Parkinson Canada .
Digital Guestbook
Joan Mellon
Captain (Ret'd) William Montague
I will always remember General Penny for his humour and concern for the basic soldier. In 1995 as I was the Sector Engineer for Sector West, Croatia, General Penny showed up and took great interest in our activities and was surprised when we took him for a Helicopter ride across our AOR. You wouldn't believe the grin he had on his face as a result. Rest In Peace Sir, for you will be forever remembered.
Bethany Bisaillion
A truly kind and thoughtful man I had the honour of meeting when I piped for the Readiness Challenge 6 in Florida, and someone who I loved seeing over the years in the bands he played in. A great man who will be truly missed.
Richard Boivin LCol (Ret;d)
My sincere condolences to the Penney's family in the passing of Keith Penney. His leadership has always been an inspiration to me in the way he treated all of us under his command. He will be missed and my thoughts are with his family during this difficult period.
Chief Warrant Officer (Ret’d) Tim Rousseau
My deepest condolences to the entire Penney family it this time. I had the pleasure of meeting General Penney when he was the senior serving Engineer with the CAF. He was a true visionary and in my opinion one of the greatest institutional leaders I had the honour of meeting in my 32 year career with the CAF. Rest In Peace Sir, your duty is done, Chimo.
G Brent Thornhill
It was a pleasure to know you and your family while posted to Winnipeg. Enjoyed our morning chats at the kids hockey practices
Uwe Beyer, Capt, CD, CME (Ret'd)
My deepest condolences to his family and friends and to the CME family. The Branch lost a great leader and exceptional friend to all Sappers.
Ghada Fakhri
So sorry Kyle for the loss of your father. I know how difficult this must be on you. I hope my condolences will bring you some comfort.
Graham Muir, A/Commr. RCMP ret.d
My most sincere condolences to the Penney family. Keith was a gentleman of the old school: gracious, understated and eloquent. He gave greatly of himself and was a fine friend to those of us who came to know him through the OPS and RCMP Pipe Bands.
Ivan and Sheila Richardson
Judy and Family,
We are sorry to hear of Keith's passing. It was brought to our attention by our son, Scott, who lives in Ottawa. We have many fond memories of your family when we were next door neighbours in Dartmouth. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time. Ivan and Sheila
My thoughts are with all the Penney family at this very sad time.