Gresham resident, Emma Bennett-Penuel, died on April 14, 2017. She was 90 years old.
Emma Mae Bennett was born on March 12, 1927 in Derby, Iowa to Vada (Wheeler) and Jacob Bennett. The family, consisting of 10 sisters and brothers, moved to Sandy in 1943. As a teenager, Emma worked in the shipyards in Portland. Shortly after graduating from Sandy High School, Emma was united in marriage to John Wiley Penuel Sr. on February 18, 1945 in Vancouver, Washington. They made their home in the Portland area and began their family. Emma was employed at Mail Well Envelope for 10 years prior to starting her career with Fred Meyer. After 38 years of employment, Emma retired. In 1980, Emma and John moved to Gresham and made their permanent home.
Emma loved the beach and spending time with her family. She was a member of the Assembly of God Church.
Surviving are her sons, Ed Penuel (Carol) from Warrenton and Jeff Penuel (Gail) from Gresham, 7 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild.
She is preceded in death by her husband, John Sr., son John Jr., daughter Judith, great-grandson Dylan, sister Wanda, brothers Loren, John and Bob.
Contributions can be given to the Alzheimer’s Association.