Henry James Penning

Henry J. Penning, 82, of Waterloo, died on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at UnityPoint Health – Allen Hospital in Waterloo.

He was born December 1, 1942, in Waterloo, the son of Henry and Marie (Mayfield) Penning. He graduated from Waterloo East High School in 1961.

Henry married Lucille M. Kern on July 21, 1962, at St. John's Catholic Church in Waterloo; she preceded him in death on August 28, 2015.

He worked at John Deere for over 30 years, starting in the foundry before retiring as a tractor inspector from the NE Tractor Works.

Henry was a member of UAW Local 838. He was an avid fisherman, both for himself, and for all the people he taught to fish over the years. He enjoyed camping and owned a camper for many years. He also made a hobby out of pig roasting. He did many pig roasts for family and friends over the years.

He is survived by his two children, Charlene (Scott) Franke of Dubuque, and Henry G. "George" Penning of Waterloo; three grandchildren, Tyler, Nicole, and George James; and three great-grandchildren, Lorelai, Sterling, and Dawson.

Henry was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Lucille; two brothers, Donald and James Penning; two sisters, Agnes Packer and Esther Jones.

Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Locke at Tower Park, 4140 Kimball Avenue, with burial at Garden of Memories Cemetery, both in Waterloo. Visitation for one hour prior to services at the funeral home. A memorial fund will be established. Condolences may be left at www.LockeFuneralServices.com. Locke at Tower Park is assisting the family, 319-233-3146.