Robert Maynard Pennell
January 12, 1938 – April 26, 2026
We are sad to announce the death of Robert Maynard Pennell. Bob was born on January 12, 1938, in Santa Monica, California to Maynard and Ellen Pennell. He graduated from Roosevelt High School and then from the University of Washington in Aeronautical Engineering. Bob was a Captain in the U.S. Marine Corps, flying F4 Phantoms in combat and training others to fly. He served in Viet Nam. Once his service was complete, he earned his MBA from the Harvard Business School.
Bob and Janice Hoenhaus (Richards) were married in 1960 and had two children, Timothy and Jillian. They lived in several cities in the U.S. while Bob was in the Marines, before settling in Seattle. Seattle remained his home where he started a successful business, enjoyed family and the many outdoor activities the Northwest has to offer with bicycling, skiing, golfing and hiking ranking high on his list.
In 1994 Bob married Adelaide Brooks and together they shared adventures, trips to faraway places and gatherings of friends, both those just met or known for a lifetime. His contagious zest for life was enlivened by his great intellectual curiosity, coupled with the love, joy, humor and exuberance he brought to the world. These traits combined with an unfailingly positive attitude stood him in good stead as he faced the complications of heart disease and stroke over the last several years.
He lived his life contributing to the community: mentoring young entrepreneurs, serving on the boards of University Prep and the Harvard Alumni Association of the NW and working with Friends of Youth. Bob loved encouraging others to find their gifts and grow. For their part, his family will treasure his memory as a guide, a friend, and a loving father, grandfather and husband. His kindness and humor brought out the best in others.
Bob is survived by his wife Addi, daughter Jillian (Brad Rutherford), grandchildren Talis Pennell (Tim Aspinall), Kenzie Rutherford and Terefa Rutherford, great granddaughter Tommie Aspinall, brother Don Pennell (Linda), and sister Mary Nelson (Kenneth). He was preceded in death by his son Timothy Pennell.
Bob died surrounded by family and friends on April 26, 2026 at Kline Galland Home Hospice. A life well lived.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Kline Galland Center (Hospice and Transitional Care Unit) or Friends of Youth in memory of Robert Pennell.