Obituary of Jason Penner

Jason Todd Penner

 

On September 30 at 7:01am, at the age of 53, our big hearted son, brother and uncle Jason Todd Penner left his earthly body to be free to walk with his heavenly family again. Jason peacefully passed with his mother and two brothers by his side, holding him with their love.

 

Jason was born in Steinbach, MB on June 24, 1970 to Roy & Emelyn Penner. They were overjoyed to welcome their first of three sons into this world. From a young age they could see how much love and compassion he had to share. Being an older brother brought him so much joy because spending time with his brothers was special for him. Those many trips, concerts, rounds of golf, pints of beers and sporting events they shared will be cherished memories for Cam & Leighton.

 

Jason’s love for his parents was something he would have been most proud of. Much of his working life was spent with them in some way, learning so much from their hard work. Jason wanted to make them so proud from the opportunities they gave him to further himself in life. His father was his hero for so many reasons and he had a deep gratitude for his mothers unconditional love and support.

 

Jason and family left Steinbach in 1980 for Caronport, SK. There he discovered hockey where he earned himself a Most Improved Player trophy while playing. In 1983 they moved to Brandon, MB and Jason finished his schooling there in 1988. Jason continued his love for sports by playing baseball, hockey, cricket and golf. When not playing he was involved in some way, whether supporting friends and family, working the scorekeepers bench, or getting out to support the Wheat Kings or Winnipeg Jets. While in Brandon he developed some true friendships that lasted his lifetime. The Penner’s moved to Calgary, AB in 1995 and this brought many more opportunities for entertainment. His new friends along with old ones got him onto another baseball team, got him out golfing and introduced him to other outdoor ventures. Jason enjoyed many camping, hiking, and houseboat trips with friends. He enjoyed getting out to Hitmen, Roughneck, Stampeders and Flames games and partying on the Red Mile during the Cup run in ‘04. So many concerts were attended in the city or getting away to other shows like U2 with both brothers or Tom Petty with Cam. A lot of adventures and memories were made while out west.

 

Jason had to overcome many struggles in his life. At the age of 4 he had his first health challenge with Leukemia. Though it was a tough battle he came out the other side and lived a very full life. He had many family trips around North America, a mission trip to the Netherlands, Mexico and Vegas trips with friends, and other excursions that were a blast. Then 12 years ago, he faced new health challenges that slowed his adventures down. Jason had multiple brain surgeries that started a decade of hospital visits, recovery, loss of independence and eventually moving into a care home. His last few years were spent in Brandon after 25 years in Calgary. He wanted so much to be able to walk again, give his nieces a normal hug, go for a round of golf with his brothers or just shoot some darts with his dad over a pint like he used to. His family wished this for him as well.

 

Jason is survived by his parents, Roy & Emelyn, brothers, Cameron (Jenn), Leighton (Jody), and nieces, Odessa, Sophie and Mya. He will be missed by so many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends spread throughout this big world. Jason, Big Daddy or Digbee, will be remembered for his big heart, kind spirit, generosity, and a love for his family they felt to the end.

 

The family wishes to express our gratitude to the many staff from the care homes and hospitals that helped and touched Jason’s life in some way. We especially want to thank the ER staff and Dr. Grobb at Brandon Regional Health Centre for your grace and compassion.

 

At this time there will be no funeral or service, a celebration of life will be held at a later date. The family asks that if you want to donate or send anything in honour of Jason, that you give to a charity (like Operation Smile) for those less fortunate, give of your time to those in need or buy someone lunch that needs it. Don’t turn away from those who may be struggling. They may be lonely, may be depressed, or don’t have someone that loves them. We don’t know their own story.

Share of hug in memory of Jason. Be kind.

 

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