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
Florence & Rocky Dwyer
Maclachlan Family Scotland
Our deepest sympathy to the Penney family at this very difficult time, our thoughts are with you.
Pat and Al Grice
Deepest condolences to Judy and the whole family.
LCol Louis Richard, CD1, PEng
Our sincere condolences to Judy and family on their loss. Keith was a wonderful and generous person. I enjoyed our times together on the Military Engineers course in Chilliwack the summer of 1969. I drove back with him in his Ford Cortina GT as far as Dryden, Ontario when he was transferred to Summerside. Jean and I also enjoyed our time together at Air Defence Command in North Bay from 1974 to 1975 where he took up painting art. We also saw each other at various times though our military careers. He had a wide ranging influence on the Military Engineers and the Canadian Forces in general. He displayed the best qualities of being an officer and a gentleman. He will be missed
Louis and Jean Richard
Captain (ret'd) Deborah Fowler
I am sorry to hear General Penney passed. He was such a kind boss and nice person, he deserved many more years. I worked for him in Shearwater and then we occasionally rode the Fallingbrook bus together. He always had time for me and encouraging words. My thoughts are with all the family who he adored.
To the Penney Families
As difficult as this time is, may you find comfort in knowing that Keith will always be with you, and the memories you shared will forever be a part of your life. The unbroken thread that is woven from love, will help keep these memories in your heart, and will live on in your memories forever.