Joseph J. Penksa, Jr.
Joseph John “Joe” Penksa, 86, of Winamac, passed away at his home on Friday, Nov. 7.
He was born on May 15, 1939 in Chicago, Illinois to the late Joseph John and Elizabeth Mary (Boksa) Penksa. Joe graduated from Monterey High School with the class of 1957. He served in the US Navy from 1957 to 1961 aboard the USS New Jersey. After serving in the US Navy Reserve for two years, he received an Honorable Discharge on July 24, 1963. Joe married Mary Agnes Zehner on Oct. 9, 1965, at St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Monterey.
Joe worked hard throughout his life and retired from Dean’s Foods in Rochester. He was a lifelong member of St. Anne’s Catholic Church and an active member of the Knights of Columbus. Joe was also a member of the Monterey American Legion Post #399.
Joe was a talented woodworker and an avid numismatist. He enjoyed tinkering in his shop, especially stripping wires. Joe completed numerous puzzles over the years. Most of all, Joe was a loving husband, father and grandfather.
He is survived by wife Mary Agnes (Zehner) Penksa, Winamac; daughters: Debra Sue [Stephen] Hinkleman, Fort Wayne, Brenda Lee [RB] Walters, Monterey, Sandra Jean [Troy] Hartz, Grand Junction, Colorado and Cynthia Marie Lewis, Winamac; 14 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by parents: John and Elizabeth Mary (Boksa) Penksa; one infant granddaughter; and sister Christine M. “Chris” Fox.
Visitation will be from 10 - 11 a.m., Thursday, Nov. 13, at St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Monterey.
A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:30 a.m., Thursday, Nov. 13, at St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Monterey, Rev. Anthony Rowland officiating.
Burial will take place at St. Anne’s Cemetery in Monterey. The American Legion and US Navy will conduct Military Graveside Services.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Anne’s Cemetery.
Online tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary in Winamac.
(Pulaski County Journal — Nov. 12, 2025)