GLORIA LEICHTY-PENWELL, Formerly Clay City, IN

Gloria Leichty-Penwell, 92, of Suttons Bay, passed away peacefully on September 29, 2024. She was born on November 2, 1931, in Clay City, Indiana, to Emerson and Berniece Liechty.

Gloria was known for her caring nature, always welcoming others with an open heart and arms. Her love for the color pink became one of her signatures, and she delighted in simple joys like crocheting and enjoying ice cream.

Family gatherings brought Gloria much happiness, particularly during the summer. The 4th of July was a highlight of every year, where she would prepare delicious meals and ensure everyone had more than enough to eat. Some of her most beloved dishes included “Party Chicken,” “California Casserole,” and her renowned “Swedish Tea Ring” at Christmas time.

Throughout her life, Gloria made a lasting impact with all she met. She had a fulfilling career as a teacher and then as a medical office manager at her husband’s medical practice. During her college years, she met Marvin Penwell, and their connection was instant. They married on June 28, 1952, in Clay City, Indiana, embarking on a lifelong adventure together. Gloria and Marvin loved to travel, cherishing time with their two adopted children, Polly and Todd Penwell, and later in life splitting their time between Michigan and Florida.

As a family, they explored the United States, with a particularly memorable two-week trip to Hawaii, where they enjoyed the beauty of the islands.

Gloria is survived by her children, R. Todd (Allyson) Penwell and Polly Penwell; granddaughter Krystyana (Gareth) Grey; brother-in-law Fred Ficklin; dear friend Georgina Hosmer; and many extended family members. She is preceded in death by her parents, her sister Anita

Ficklin, her beloved husband, Marvin, and her second husband, William Erickson.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Women’s Resource Center of Traverse City.

A private burial will take place at a later date. The family invites you to share your cherished memories of Gloria at www.Reynolds-Jonkhoff.com