Wilma E. (Pletcher) Penwell

Wilma E. (Pletcher) Penwell, age 98, of Bloomingdale, began her heavenly journey on April 25, 2010. Wilma was born on April 16, 1912 in Minden City, MI. She was the third of seven children born to William Jackson and Kathryn (Wilson) Pletcher. Her parents and five siblings, Genevieve, Alice, Edna, Bernie, and Jack, preceded her in passing. She married Harve L. Penwell in September, 1932. They had four children. Her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren were her pride and joy. She was active in the Maccabee's, Methodist Church Women's Guild and Sewing Circle. She was one of the early "working moms," enjoyed cooking, sewing, and other handcraft activities. When she retired from J.C. Penney Co. in Niles, MI, she became a foster grandparent, sharing her "grandma wisdom" with youngsters at the Berrien County Juvenile Center. Later on, she also spent time "rocking and loving" babies at Pawating Hospital in Niles. For family gatherings, a favorite request was apple pie slices, and she always had time for that treat. She will be greatly missed by her family and many friends, knowing she's finally "home." She was preceded in death by her husband Harve, daughters Kathleen (Kay) Bodjack, Brenda (Ann) Martin, and grandson James (Jamey) Wilkens. She is survived by her brother William (Bill and wife Jean) Pletcher, her children Dale (Kathy) Penwell, Chambersburg, PA, and Ruth Ellen Wilkens, Portage, MI. Also surviving are grandchildren Nicki Jo Wingaert, Toni Kay (Fred) Bruegmann, Amy (Jesse) Yaloff, Linda (Jordan) Celkupa, Michael Penwell, Kathryn (Scott) Picchiottino, Deborah (Michael) Fleetwood, Kirk (Kim) Martin, Matthew (Theresa) Martin, Joseph (Yvonne) Wilkins, Jonathan (Bonnie) Wilkens. Wilma is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Those who love and miss her are 14 great grandchildren and one expected great great grandchild. Family will receive friends at the BLOOMINGDALE CHAPEL, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, on Saturday, May 1, 2010 at 12 noon for visitation with service to follow at 2 PM. Burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, American Heart Association or the Activities Department at Meadow Woods Nursing and Rehab Ctr.

Wilma E. (Pletcher) Penwell

April 16, 1912 - April 25, 2010