James Penman 1936-2025

James Penman, 88, was born in October 1936 in Punxsutawney, Pa., the son of Earl and Betty Hura Penman. He eventually moved to Youngstown, where he worked at Youngstown Sheet & Tube Co. and retired after 25 years as a tube roller.

He also found the love of his life there when he married Mary Jane Koren in 1977 at Holy Trinity Parish. They would have celebrated 48 years of marriage in July of this year.

Jim and Mary Jane settled in Struthers and, after retirement, enjoyed many years as snowbirds, traveling to Florida to their “mobile” home. For 13 years, Jim did all the driving duties to and from Ohio, with Mary Jane as the trusted navigator. They made countless friends during their years of wintering in Florida.

More than anything, Jim was our “Uncle Jim.” He had a large repertoire of one-liners that made everyone laugh and was always ready to fix a broken toy or help Grandma.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his loving and dedicated wife, Mary Jane; sisters-in-law, Nancy Penman, Janet Hura, Judy (Bob) Davis, Suzy (Ron) Garchar, Evelyn Koren and Marcia Koren; many nieces and nephews; and countless family members and friends.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; in-laws; brothers, Richard, Edward and Robert; and multiple brothers- and sisters-in-law.

The Penman family has entrusted their loved one to the care of Kirila Funeral Home and will receive friends 4 to 6 p.m. Monday, June 16, 2025 at the funeral home.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11 a.m. Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at Holy Trinity Church, with a memorial luncheon to follow.

A special note of gratitude is extended to the staff at Maplecrest Nursing Home for the care Jim received, as well as to Alex Vrable, D.O., who cared for Jim for over 48 years!

(special notice)