Ervin Paul Penner, 87, passed away on April 4, 2017. He was born July 1, 1929 to Paul and Ann Penner. His initials spell EPP-his mother's maiden name. Born in Beatrice, NE, he grew up as a normal farm boy, graduating from grade school, then one year in Bible School and then from high school in 1948. From there, his parents took him to Bethel College, North Newton, KS, not to his liking (crying the entire trip). He graduated in 1952 with a science degree. He spent two years in the harvest field in the state of Washington operating a combine to help pay for his college education. His senior year in college he met a friend, Alfrieda Regier, whom he married on June 14, 1953. Their first child, Katherine Ann, named after both grandmothers, was born on July 4,1954. Later James was born, then Yvonne and Jay. He was always thankful for four healthy, God-loving children.  He was baptized at the age of 16 in the First Mennonite Church, Beatrice, NE, then immersed in the Jordan River on a trip to the Holy Land in January of 1996. He was employed at Eli Lily, IU Med Center, farmed for a few years, and then worked at Larr Equipment in Lebanon and John Deere in Mooresville, before he finally ended up with his own Business, AA Septic Service, which he enjoyed.  His son, James, is now the owner.  Family was important in his life. He speaks of lots of picnics in his younger years and playing with cousins. He loved participating in the county and state 4-H fairs with his children and grandchildren. He was an active member of Plainfield Christian Church.  He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Alfrieda; 4 children, Katherine Ward (Terry), James (Darlene), Yvonne Crowder (Justin), Jay (Paula) Penner; brothers, Don (Janet), Gene (Pat) Penner; sister, Leona Penner; 10 grandchildren, and 13 great grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Gideon’s of which he was a member, or Plainfield Christian Church 800 North Dan Jones Road Plainfield, Indiana 46168

Visitation will be Friday, April 7 from 4p.m. -7p.m. at Hall Baker Funeral Home, Plainfield, IN with an additional visitation Saturday, April 8 at 9:00 a.m. to10:00 a.m. funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m. in The Plainfield Christian Church. Burial will follow in Clayton Cemetery.  

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