Donald John Penker

November 12, 1946 - August 11, 2025

Donald John Penker, 78, of Hopewell Junction, NY, passed away peacefully at home on August 11, 2025, surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born in the Bronx, NY, on November 12, 1946, he was the son of the late Charles and Muriel (Baker) Penker. On May 2, 1992, he married the love of his life, Elizabeth (Lora) Penker, in Queens, NY. They shared 33 wonderful years together, and she survives at home.

Donald proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from 1966 to 1972. A gentle, family-oriented man known for his patience, dedication and quiet strength, he worked for more than 30 years as a Telephone Installer with the New York Telephone Company. In retirement, he enjoyed working part-time in the produce department at ShopRite, where he met and became friends with his future daughter-in-law, Sarah.

Being a father was Don's greatest joy. He shared this love by volunteering his time coaching Little League in East Fishkill when his son Brian was young. He also cherished the annual family vacations to Lake George - a tradition he helped start with his sister more than 40 years ago, and one that will continue for generations.

Don loved to swim, a skill taught to him by his father and a passion he shared with his beloved sister, which they then passed on to his niece, nephew, and son. He was a loyal fan of the New York Yankees and New York Rangers, enjoyed listening to the "oldies but goodies," hunting, and most of all, treasured time spent with those he loved most.

A devout Catholic, Donald was a faithful parishioner of St. Columba Church since moving to Hopewell Junction in the late 1970s .

In addition to his wife, Elizabeth, he is survived by his son Brian and his wife Sarah of Wappinger Falls, NY; his sister Dorothy Mitchell of Hopewell Junction, NY; his mother-in-law Maria Genao of Hopewell Junction, NY; his niece and goddaughter Danielle Mitchell-Ryder and her husband Keith of Hopewell Junction, NY; his nephews Christopher Mitchell of Saugerties, NY, and Matthew Mitchell and his wife Nicole of Hopewell Junction, NY; and his cherished grand-nieces, Kailey Ryder and Autumn Mitchell, who brought him endless joy and laughter.

Known lovingly as "Uncle Don" by many, he also leaves behind numerous extended and chosen family members, in-laws who adored him, and friends - all of whom he loved deeply and who loved him in return.

In addition to his parents, Donald was predeceased by his older brother, Charles Penker, and his beloved brother-in-law and friend, Eugene Mitchell.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to their dear neighbors and "earthly angels," Tom and Beth Abrams, whose unwavering kindness, generosity, and care during Donald's illness-and right through to the very end-will never be forgotten.

Calling Hours
Wednesday, August 13, 2025 ' 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
McHoul Funeral Home, Inc.
895 Route 82, Hopewell Junction, NY

Mass of Christian Burial
Thursday, August 14, 2025 ' 10:00 a.m.
St. Columba Church
835 Main Street, Hopewell Junction, NY

Interment with military honors will follow at St. Denis Cemetery, 604 Beekman Road, Hopewell Junction, NY.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to either of the following organizations:

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital - www.stjude.org

The Children's Home of Poughkeepsie - www.childrenshome.us