Harry William “Bill” Penland, 84, of Prairie Village, Kansas, passed away on Saturday, August 15, 2020, in the comfort of his own home surrounded by his family.

Bill was born on August 9, 1936, in Fort Scott, Kansas, to Harry V. and Kathleen S. (Belshe) Penland.  Bill served his country in the Army National Guard of the United States.

Growing up, Bill was fondly known as “Sonny Boy.”  He was an inquisitive and mischievous child.  Bill graduated from Shawnee Mission Rural High School in 1954.  Bill had a wonderful work ethic which he made sure to instill in all of his children.  His first job began at Fitts Dry Goods filling orders as needed.  He also worked at Klines Department Store on Main Street selling clothes to save money for college.  In 1956, Bill enrolled at Kansas State University to pursue a degree in Agriculture.  While attending college he worked for K-State running tests on sorghums and even started the FFA Collegiate Chapter at K-State.  Bill wrote the constitution for the Collegiate Chapter, held meetings, and was essential to the organization during his time at K-State.  Bill joined the Army National Guard in 1959.  He courageously served 9 years.  He began working at Swift Packing House, Rodney Milling Co., and Interstate Brands.  He married his first wife, and they had 4 children together.  After many years of working for others, Bill decided to venture out on his own.  He owned and operated two of his own businesses, United Property Services and The Grande Square.  Though both of his businesses were successful, he chose to work for the Johnson County Water District in his later years.  He retired at the age of 68 in 2004.

Bill had a great love for his family.  Especially for his children and grandchildren.  He loved spending time with his family, travel, research genealogy, and he had a great sense of humor.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents Harry and Kathleen; his brother Tom Penland; and his two sisters Joella and Joetta.  Survivors include his wife Darleen Wittum Penland; his children, Thomas (Christi) Penland, Leanna Penland-Contreras, Joy (George) Scarlett, Amy (Marc) Bartlett, Kelly (Marlon) Brantley, and Shane Norman; ten grandchildren, three great-grandchildren; and his brother Tim Penland.

Bill showed strength, love, and courage until his last breath.  He was loved by all his family and friends.  Bill loved everyone big and unconditionally.  He will be greatly missed by us all.  We love you Sonny boy.

Graveside Service

A graveside service was held on August 17, 2020, at Pleasant View Cemetery, Shawnee, Kansas.

Memorial Contributions

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in honor of Bill to the Shawnee Mission VFW brick wall located at 13817 Johnson Drive, Shawnee, Kansas 66216.