Joesph Pennington

Joseph Pennington, of Duncansville, passed away at UPMC Wednesday, April 17, 2019, after a brief illness. He was a longtime resident of a loving Skills group home.

Joe was the remaining child of Leona and J.W. Pennington of Altoona. He was preceded in death by four sisters and two brothers.

Anyone who came to know Jo also came to love him. His wonderfully warm, outgoing, and sunny personality was able to sweep away the troubles of anyone’s day. He was a Pittsburgh Pirate and Steeler fan and could most often be found sitting in his favorite recliner, smiling, while proudly wearing his Pirate cap, the one with the funny orange hair on top.

Those who knew him marveled at his carefree, upbeat nature. Many have said that they envied Joe’s outlook on life, which blessed him with an innocence about and wonderful unknowing of the trials and tribulations swirling in the world outside of his beloved Skills home.

Joe loved to meet new people and discover new places. He Skills family would take him to ballgames and restaurants, go shopping (pet stores were a favorite), and on train rides. He loved animals and spent many happy hours thinking of ways to annoy fellow resident, Mister the Cat.

His love of outings and animals was exceeded only by his love for his Skills family, who spared nothing in their daily quest to meet Joe’s needs. His life was fully enriched and lengthened by their inexhaustible efforts and love.

To honor and celebrate Joe’s life, his family urges anyone so moved to make a contribution to his memory to the Skills Foundation in State College.