Kathryn "Elaine" Penn - Roper and Sons

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Kathryn “Elaine” Penn, 86, of Lincoln, was called home to meet her Savior on Tuesday morning, July 16, 2024. Elaine was born on August 5, 1937, in Long Beach, CA, to Davis and Beryl (Moore) Woodward. She was the beloved younger sister of Ron Woodward, who preceded her in death in 2020.

Elaine spent her childhood in southern California and graduated as valedictorian from Woodrow Wilson High School. In the fall of 1955, she chose to attend Friends University in Wichita, Kansas, where she pursued a degree in Home Economics and English. It was there that Elaine met Jim Penn from Chicago, IL, and on June 28, 1958, they married, spending their first year together as college seniors.

After college, Jim and Elaine lived in Wichita for several years where they welcomed their two children, Michele and Michael. In 1969, they moved to Lincoln, Nebraska which has been their home to this day.

Elaine cherished her 66 years of marriage to Jim and embraced her role as a dedicated mother and grandmother. Guided by her deep faith in Jesus Christ, she exemplified service, kindness, and generosity to her family, church and community. Elaine enjoyed playing the piano, tending to her flower gardens, playing tennis and cheering on the Huskers.

Elaine is survived by her husband, James Penn; daughter Michele Loecken (Kevin) of Plymouth, MN, and son Michael Penn (Michelle) of Lincoln, NE; grandchildren Andrea (Peter) Leafblad of Shoreview, MN, Matthew (Katie) Loecken of Shoreview, MN, Eric Loecken of Eden Prairie, MN, and Ethan, Davis, and Avery Penn of Lincoln, NE; along with 5 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, August 1st at 10 am at First Free Church, 3280 South 84th Street, Lincoln.

Memorial contributions may be made to First Free Church, Lincoln NE.

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Services

August1

Funeral Service

10:00 am

First Free Church

3280 S 84th St, Lincoln, NE 68506

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Share a Memory or Condolence

July 28, 2024

So sorry to hear of this news and thanks for letting us know. Sure do remember so many wonderful memories of family events of Aunt Elaine. I don’t think I can remember any time, just about, when she didn’t have a smile on her face. The lingering memories often have to do with such a deep sense of kindness, off-the-charts gracious spirit, and an amazing sense of hospitality. Her regular visits to Oregon to be with Grandma Beryl and visit our family are positive memories. No doubt, many of her skills in hospitality came from Grandma Beryl. So sorry that we’ll be half way around the world and miss the memorial – and condolences to all of your family. – Woodwards

– Doug Woodward

July 26, 2024

Elaine played such a wonderful role in my spiritual development. She welcomed me to Sunday School at FEFC our first day visiting when I was five years old. As I grew up, her music and hospitality gifts were used to make others feel welcome and included. Slumber parties and youth group gatherings were always special at the Penn house. She also met my wife before we were engaged and included her like she had known her for years. Elaine also had a good sense of humor (although I think she gave me courtesy laughs for my jokes which weren’t even all that good). Her faith came through in every thing she said and did. Our earthly loss is heaven’s gain.

– Linn Erickson

July 24, 2024

I will remember Elaine for her love of flowers & her friendly smile. I know the last few years have been hard. You honored your marriage vows, Jim. Take time to grieve & rest now.

– Pat Meierhenry

July 24, 2024

Jim, Michele, Michael and family – I was saddened to read of the passing of your wife and mother. We shared many enjoyable times together growing up on Calvert and Loveland while sharing back yards. It is hard to lose loved ones, but I pray you can focus on the nice, long life she had and the many fun memories over the years. Please accept our condolences. We will be thinking about you.