Penner, Johann (1885-1977)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary: 1977 Apr 29 p. 34

Birth date: 1885 Jan 31

text of obituary:

JOHANN A. PENNER

Johann A . Penner was born on January 31,1885 in Alexanderwohl, southern Russia, to Aron and Elisabeth (nee Regehr) Penner. He became a carpenter, but after sensing a call to mission service he attended Bible school in Sagradowka for one year. From 1909 to 1913 he attended Hamburg-Horn Predigerseminar in Germany to prepare for missionary service in India. Because both English and Telegu were essential for service in that country, the mission board sent Mr. Penner to England for language training. This period was reduced to six weeks by the threat of war. He married Anna Nickel in September, 1913. The Penners then left to begin 37 years proclaiming the Gospel in India. Following their retirement they lived in Kitchener, Ontario. Mr. Penner passed away in Kitchener on January 7. He was predeceased by his wife in 1970. A funeral service was held at the Kitchener Mennonite Brethren Church with pastor John Froese and Rev. Dietrich J . Klassen officiating. He leaves to mourn three sons and three daughters, and many friends.