Phyllis Lorraine (Barnholdt) Penton, age 95, formerly of Anita and Massena areas, passed away Friday, August 9, 2024, at Cass Health in Atlantic, IA. On October 17, 1928, she was born to Arthur and Matilda (Simon) Barnholdt. On a farm southeast of Anita is where she was raised.
After graduating from Anita High School, she met Virgil Penton and they were married on September 18, 1947, in Kansas City, MO. They went on to have 5 children, Coleen, Connie, Robert, Ronald and Roger. While she was raising her family, she also raised chickens, had a large garden, did a lot of canning and enjoyed her flowers.
For several years she worked in the kitchen at The Redwoods in Anita and then later was employed at the Bridgewater Cafe in Bridgewater. After retiring, her love of baking allowed her to take her baked goods to area farmers markets. The one obstacle that she had was finding a driver to get her to the market locations since she never drove for a day in her 95 years of life. Some of her family’s favorites were peach pie, apple butter, apple crisp, German chocolate cake, banana nut bread, meatloaf and scalloped corn.
When she was not cooking or baking, you would catch her enjoying playing cards and games. She belonged to the WW (Women of Wiota) neighborhood club. Virgil was on the fair board for many years. Phyllis would help at the food stand and peel many potatoes for roast beef dinners while their boys showed their animals for 4-H. One of the most precious memories was the love for her family.
Those who cherish Phyllis’ memory include her children Connie Jensen of Springfield, MO, Robert Penton of Adair, IA, Ronald Penton of Atlantic, IA, Roger Penton of Waukee, IA; 6 grandchildren Tammy (David) DeVall, Rebecca (Aaron) Brandwein, Blane Penton, Brandon (Jennifer) Penton, Brett (Leah) Penton, Amber (Ryan) Steensen; 17 great grandchildren and 6 great-great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, daughter Coleen, parents, and siblings.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30am, Thursday, August 15, 2024, at the Anita United Methodist Church with Rev. Jessica Wietzke officiating and burial to follow at the Evergreen Cemetery in Anita. Visitation with the family present will be held on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, from 5 to 7 pm at the Schmidt Family Funeral Home in Atlantic, IA.
Memorials in her name can be made to either the American Legion, Volunteer Fire Department or United Methodist Church all of Anita. The Schmidt Family Funeral Home of Atlantic is caring for Phyllis and her family and condolences can be sent at: Schmidtfamilyfh.com
