Frank Kenneth “Ken” Penland, 74, of Morganton, NC, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, September 3, 2023.
Born in Cleveland County, NC on November 7, 1948, he was the son of the late Frank Wesley Penland and Christine Denton Penland.
Mr. Penland was a 30+ year member of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church in Morganton, NC, where he was actively serving as a deacon and secretary treasurer.
He graduated from George Hildebran High School. Ken served his country in the US Army during the Vietnam War, earning a Bronze Star. An avid sports fan, he officiated high school sports of all kinds and was the clock operator for East Burke High School Football for over 30 years. Ken also attended all his grandson’s sporting events and enjoyed watching Carolina Basketball and the Atlanta Braves. He loved hunting, fishing, and especially spending time with his family.
Ken is survived by his wife of 52 years, Hazel Wyatt Penland; daughter, Tonya Penland Manus (Chris); grandson and apple of his eye, Wyatt Christopher Manus; siblings, Steve Penland (Betty), Larry Penland (Faith), and Frances Penland Burnette (John); special niece, Lori Hodges; and a number of nieces, nephews, and extended family.
In addition to his parents, Ken was preceded in death by a sister, Donna Walker.
The family will receive friends from 2 to 3 p.m., Sunday, September 10, 2023 at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church in Morganton, NC. The funeral will be held at 3 p.m. in the church with Rev. Doug Price and Mr. Tommy Sain officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with military honors provided by the NC National Guard.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Tribute Wall
Leave a tribute for Frank Kenneth “Ken” Penland.
So sorry to hear about Kens death. We met in Vietnam and have been friends ever Since. Will not get to attend the service as I am out of town are prayers are for the family. You will be missed. RIP Ken
Hazel, Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Love, Ron and Annelle Mulwee
Thank you for your service young man, God bless you and yours now and forever, Rest in Peace and God's speed !
I've never been good at what to say when someone leaves this world and goes to be with our LORD and SAVIOR. Ken was family to Daniel and me. His sweet wife and daughter have our deepest condolences. He will also be missed by his church family at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church.
Family my prayers are with you We know were Kenny is he's in Heaven with no more sicknesss We are really going to miss him but one day we will see him again. Love all of you all. Becky Chapman Pendley
So sad to hear this . Prayers for you Hazel and the family ❤️🙏