LELAND — Robert (Bob) Dean Penwell of Leland, North Carolina, passed away on February 12, 2026, surrounded by his children.
He is preceded in death by his parents, William Mac Penwell and Cleone Penwell, and his brother, Al Penwell.
Bob is survived by his wife, Antoinette Kress; his children, Mindy Perry and Matthew Penwell, and their spouses; and his grandsons, Christopher Penwell and Ryan Penwell.
Born on April 8, 1946, in Atlantic, Iowa, Bob was raised in the close-knit village of Morton Mills alongside his brother, Al. He attended high school in Villisca, Iowa, and then moved on to the University of Iowa. While Bob enjoyed an active social life (along with some studying) as an officer of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity, he was also admitted to a two-year program to achieve a U.S. Army commission and qualified for the Army pre-pilot training program. Bob proudly earned his Bachelor of Science degree and graduated as a Distinguished Military Graduate. And he never stopped talking about those Iowa Hawkeyes!
After graduation, Bob dedicated himself to the Army, serving with bravery and distinction. Following a tour in Vietnam, he earned two Master of Science degrees and was then stationed in Germany, where he was Commander of the 205th Aviation Company. Bob loved rotary-wing (primarily Chinook helicopter) flight and was fortunate to be assigned amazing missions around Europe before returning to Washington, DC, to retire from the military as a Lieutenant Colonel. Bob was a highly decorated officer who absolutely loved his time in the Army and was fiercely committed to serving his country. Bob always stated, “I would do it all again.” He later transitioned to a successful corporate career.
Bob absolutely loved the coastal life in both Virginia and North Carolina. Wherever he lived, his heart was always in his community. Whether he was sharing silly memes on Facebook, enjoying time on the boat, joking with friends and family, or serving his community, Bob loved being around people and making them smile. He sought to be involved in just about everything, including the Town of Leland Planning Board and the Post 68 Leland American Legion. He was well known for his sharp sense of humor, his ability to make anyone laugh, and his selfless work with veteran activities and animal shelters.
While Bob took great pride in his professional and volunteer accomplishments, his greatest joy was his children, Mindy and Matthew. He was a committed father who offered wisdom without interference, always wanting to be a part of their lives and those of his grandsons, Christopher and Ryan. He also leaves behind his beloved wife, Toni, with whom he shared many wonderful years.
A celebration of Bob’s life will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Andrews Market Street Chapel at 1617 Market Street, Wilmington, North Carolina. Inurnment with full military honors will follow at Oleander Memorial Gardens.
To honor Bob, donations can be made to Wreaths Across America.
