Keith A. Penney, 78, of Waupaca, Wisconsin, passed away on August 4, 2026 in Appleton, Wisconsin surrounded by his loving family. Keith was born on July 1, 1948 in Waupaca, Wisconsin. His parents were Sidney & Carmen Flazbot Penney.
He is survived by his loving wife Ardie Penney of Waupaca and son Christian Penney of Stevens Point, WI and his brother Dick Boutwell of Delaware. He was preceded in death by his three beautiful girls, Stacey, Hollie and Jacklyn. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, former co-workers, fellow beekeepers and his beloved dog Mushkaa, along with all those who had the privilege of knowing him.
From an early age he knew the value of hard work. He worked on the family farm and other local farms, at a mink ranch, and picking potatoes. Those early experiences helped shape the strong work ethic he carried throughout his life. Keith proudly served 3 tours in Vietnam, serving in the United States Navy and later serving in the United States Army, completing his military service in the Wisconsin Guards. He enlisted in the Navy on July 30, 1965 and was discharged on May 29, 1969. He re-enlisted on March 27, 1970 and was discharged on December 1, 1971. He served on the USS Holister, USS E. F Larson and the USS Black. After 23 years he retired E8 First Sergeant with the combined Navy and Army. Keith received many medals with the most honored ones being the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal and Vietnam Service Medal with five bronze stars. His dedication to serving his country was an important part of his life and a source of great pride for his family.
Keith worked at the Waupaca Foundry from 1971 until his retirement in 2008. His ingenuity and talent helped to make the Foundry what it is today. He holds a patent for a process with Alvin Oftedahl of which he was very proud. He worked his way to Director of Operations for 7 plants before retirement.
On November 11, 1972 he married the love of his life, Ardie Hooey. Together they built a life filled with family, love and countless memories. After retirement Keith devoted much of his time to beekeeping, making new friends and catching up with old friends at the Waupaca Dog Park, a passion that brought him tremendous joy. He became a highly respected beekeeper, teacher, and mentor, always willing to share his knowledge and help others. In 2020 he was honored as the Wisconsin Honey Producers Association Beekeeper of the Year, recognizing his dedication and contribution to the art of beekeeping. He will be remembered for his love of the outdoors and his enjoyment of hunting, fishing and watching the Green Bay Packers and the Milwaukee Brewers. He was an avid enthusiast of watching his son Christian play hockey, baseball, and many other sports. He was always willing to dedicate his time, especially at the Waupaca Hockey Rink. He always said “Remember, it’s always about having fun, win or lose”.
His greatest legacy is not his awards or accomplishments, but the people he touched and the memories he created with family and friends and those who he mentored. Above all, he will be remembered as a loving husband, father, brother and friend. Though he is no longer with us, his lessons, stories, kindness and memories will remain in the hearts of those who loved him.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Par 4 Resort in Waupaca, WI on Saturday, August 22nd from Noon until 4:00 p.m. with Military Honors at 3:00 p.m. A Private burial will take place at a later date at Sheridan Cemetery in the Town of Farmington. The Holly Funeral Home of Waupaca is assisting the family with arrangements.
