William R. Penish

William R. Penish, 93, lifelong Indianapolis resident, passed away December 29, 2020. Mr. Penish was born August 14, 1927, to the late Will and Bertha (Pflum) Penish. He married the love of his life, Diane, on February 16, 1952, and she preceded him in death after 59 years of marriage.

Bill graduated from Shortridge High School, proudly served in the United States Army, and earned his degree from Butler University. He worked early on for Cooper Studios, which became Carhart Photo. He retired in 1992 as the controller of Erbrich Products. A devout Catholic, Bill was a member and usher at St. Barnabas Catholic Church and was past Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus Council 3660. He was also a 4th degree member of the Bishop Chatard Assembly. Bill and Diane loved to travel and especially enjoyed cruises. He was a collector of stamps and coins and was an avid Butler basketball fan. Above all, Bill was a devoted family man – hard working, loving, and honorable.

Survivors include his children, William C. (Melody) Penish, Lynne M. Gearries, Catherine A. (the late Randy) Dawson, and Stacy (James) Crane; grandchildren, James (Heather), John, Joseph (Allison), Blake, Will, and Callie; great grandchildren, Fairah, James, and Fiona.

Visitation will be Monday, January 4, 2021, 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., at O’Riley Funeral Home. Prayers will begin at 11:30, followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 12 Noon, in St. Barnabas Catholic Church. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery. The Mass will be live streamed on the O’Riley Facebook page by visiting https://www.facebook.com/orileyfuneralhome/. Visit www.ORileyFuneralHome.com to share a favorite memory or to sign the online guest registry.