Hans R Penner

Hans R. Penner, 83, died Wednesday (March 6, 2002) at Newton Presbyterian Manor. He was born Jan. 21, 1919, in Elbing, Germany. He brought his family to Newton in 1956 and began a career with Hesston Corporation shortly after his arrival. He retired as an industrial engineer after 28 years. When not at work, he was busy pursuing his hobbies and his love of the outdoors. He thoroughly enjoyed camping, sailing, gardening and star gazing. He was an amateur astronomer, frequently lecturing in the local area and writing articles. He also enjoyed carpentry and his workshop. Survivors include: his wife, Gerta Penner of Newton; a son, Rolf Penner of Wichita; a daughter, Inge Penner of San Francisco; and 12 grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Ivy Knobbe, Jeff Knobbe, Karley Knobbe and Kaitlyn Knobbe, all of Dodge City, Robert Penner and Katie Penner, both of New Port News, Va., and Derrek Burrows, Tina Burrows, Christopher Burrows, Westley Burrows, Kayley Burrows and Edith Loughmiller, all of Wichita. He was preceded in death by a sister, Christel Neumann, in Germany. There will be a private family graveside service in Greenwood Cemetery. Broadway Colonial Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.