Don Earl Pennington

Don Earl Pennington, Age 86, of Indianapolis, Indiana, was called home to heaven on Friday, August 9, 2024. Born on October 11, 1937, in Hamilton, Ohio, Don was the cherished son of Earl and Flora (Hurst) Pennington. His parents instilled in him the values of honesty, respect, hard work, and a deep faith in God, principles that guided him throughout his life. Don’s journey in education was a testament to his dedication and perseverance. He graduated from New Ross High School, New Ross, IN, and attended Purdue University, receiving a B.S. in Agricultural Education in May 1959. Don began his career as a high school teacher in southeastern Indiana. He pursued further education, balancing his teaching career with evening and weekend classes, to earn a master’s degree in School Administration from Purdue University, which he completed in January 1967. His commitment to improving education led him to roles within the Indiana Department of Education as Director of the State Board for Vocational, Technical, and Adult Education, and Assistant Superintendent of Washington Township Schools, Indianapolis, IN. After earning his Doctorate in Education in 1977 from Indiana University, Don served as a Superintendent of Schools for school districts in Freeport, IL, Danville, IL, and MSD of Warren Township, Indianapolis, IN. After retiring, Don spent several years working with an architectural firm which designed and built schools throughout the Midwest. Don’s impact extended beyond his professional life. He was known for his unwavering support of organizations including Purdue FarmHouse Fraternity, Warren Arts and Education Foundation, Marion County Fair, and the Indianapolis East Rotary Club, which reflected his deep commitment to serving the communities in which he lived and worked. Don’s greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Rose Marie (Stallsmith), whom he married on January 23, 1960. Their 54-year marriage was a testament to their deep love and partnership. Rose Marie, who preceded him in death in 2014, was his steadfast supporter and confidant, and together they created a nurturing and loving home. Don was a loving father to his three daughters, Donna Ryan (Doug Giaudrone), Diane (John) Schultz, and Dana (Jeff) Nelson. With his remarkable sense of humor and wit, Don often shared that being a dad to three girls taught him patience, understanding, and flexibility. His unwavering support and love were a constant source of strength and guidance throughout their lives. His devotion extended to his grandchildren, Megan (Kyle) Hamann, Brittney (A.J.) Silkworth, Hannah (Brett) McClelland, Grant Schultz, Maria Schultz, Brody Ryan, Cameron Nelson, and Alaina Nelson, all who were the light of his life. Don loved his grandchildren immensely, was delighted in their accomplishments, and experienced great joy in spending time with them. His love for his four great-grandchildren, Adler and Maeve Hamann, and Corbin and Owen Silkworth, also brought him tremendous happiness. Don’s passion for travel was another way he embraced life, creating unforgettable memories with his family. From exploring Japan, Alaska, and Hawaii with Rose Marie to enjoying many Christmas vacations, especially Costa Rica, with his daughters and their families, he cherished every adventure and the opportunity to create lasting memories with family and friends. Don’s legacy will be remembered by all who knew him. Don is also survived by his sister-in-law, June (Paul) O’Brien; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is preceded in death by his wife, parents, and sister, Joan Garrard. Visitation will be Friday, August 16, 2024 from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service at 10:00 a.m. at Shirley Brothers Washington Memorial Chapel, 9606 East Washington Street. Burial will follow at 1:00 p.m. at the Masonic Cemetery in Van Buren, Indiana. Memorials in memory of Don can be made to the Warren Arts and Education Foundation’s Pennington Scholarship, 975 North Post Road, Indianapolis, IN 46219 www.warrenfoundation.org and/or Purdue FarmHouse Fraternity Foundation, P.O. Box 2644, West Lafayette, IN 47996. www.shirleybrothers.com.

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Don Earl Pennington

October 11, 1937 - August 9, 2024