Marvin G. Penske

Marvin "Pete" G. Penske, 85, a beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, and friend, passed away on January 16, 2024, at the Knapp Medical Center in Weslaco, Texas. The youngest of ten, Pete was born on January 10, 1939, in Vesta, Minnesota, to Gustav and Emma (Kolander) Penske.

When Pete was a child, he started farming alongside his brothers and developed a deep love for the land. Growing up on the farm taught him many valuable lessons about hard work and dedication. Despite being fully committed to working on the farm, Pete found time to actively participate in all sports during high school - football, basketball, and track. Pete also attended two high schools based on the quickest bus route that would meet his work schedule. 

As luck would have it, Pete got on the right bus because he fell in love with his future wife, Judith "Judy" Warner, around this time. After graduating from high school, Pete enlisted in the US Army. When honorably discharged, Pete returned to his high school sweetheart, and they were married on July 1, 1961. 

The newly married couple lived in Minneapolis, where Pete did cement work, and Judy worked as a nurse. In 1963, they moved back to the Vesta area, where Pete continued his farming career with his brothers, a passion ignited as a young boy. However, Pete and Judy later decided to venture out and embrace the challenges of independent farming. Eventually, Pete was joined by his son, son-in-law, and grandson as they worked together to build a legacy that would stand the test of time. Pete's love for nature and sewing the fruits of his labor never wavered. He was most content rising to work endless hours during the growing season. Pete hesitantly retired at the age of eighty-one. 

Pete's dedication to sports continued into adulthood as he passionately played fast-pitch softball and enjoyed golf. He and Judy also enjoyed spending summers at their lake cabin with the family. They also traveled throughout the United States and Mexico. Catalina Island was one of their favorite vacation spots, where they visited Judy’s brother often. Marvin and Judy began spending winters in the warmer South Texas climate in 2008, making priceless memories with newfound friends at their Weslaco, Texas RV Park, Ranchero Village. 

Pete was a Christian man of faith. He was also a lifelong member of St. John's Lutheran Church of Vesta, Minnesota.

Pete's most significant accomplishments were centered around family. Especially the Friday night Happy Hours and Sunday Dinners, where they made priceless memories. He took immense pride in nurturing and guiding his children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. His unwavering support and love have left an indelible mark on their lives.

Marvin is preceded in death by his parents, Gustav and Emma Penske, his siblings, Gilfie Lyons (John), Goldie Wells (Kelsey), Allen Penske (Doris), Howard Penske (Arletta), "Dotti" Hansvick (John), Kenneth Penske (Joyce), Karmen Penske (Loretta), and Glenn Penske (who died as an infant), and his son-in-law, Gerry Busiahn. 

He is survived by his loving wife, Judy Penske; daughter, Mary Ellen Busiahn (Gerry+); son, James Marvin Penske (Jennifer); sister, La Von Wells; grandchildren, Laura Smith (Marshall), Lydia Luepke (Casey), Veronica Bever (Timm), Julia Reiner (Tyler), Bradley Penske (Ashley), Kari Wensauer (Brandon), Leah Siverhus (Kelly), great-grandchildren, Bronson, Madeline, Isabelle, Jackson, Audrina, Lincoln, and Baby Smith, Charlotte, Addison, and Stetson Luepke, Noah Bever, Emma and Beau Reiner, Everly, Barrett, and Luella Penske, Lucas Wensauer, Waylon, Lennon, and Baby Siverhus, and numerous nieces and nephews. 

Visitation will be held at 10 am, followed by a service at 11 am, at St. John's Lutheran Church, 260 County Highway 10, Vesta, MN 56283, on February 1, 2024.