Andrew Penso

Andrew James Penso, 95 of Dover, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 28, 2025 in Park Village Assisted Living at Dover.

Andy was born in Dover on June 14, 1929 to the late Paul L. and Mary L. (DiGenova) Penso.

After graduating from St. Joseph High School, he continued his formal education at John Carroll University.

On November 23, 1950, he married the late Joanne L. Bonisolli. They were blessed with 72 years of marriage prior to her passing on May 8, 2023. Andy honorably served his country in the United States Army from 1951 to 1953 and was a medic in the Korean Conflict. After he completed his service, he and Joanne started their family.

Andy enrolled in Pittsburg Institute of Mortuary Science and once licensed, he served as a funeral director and embalmer at Carl Hahn Funeral Home in Barberton and the former Schlup-Cox Funeral Home in Kenmore/Akron for numerous years. Then, he changed careers and was an insurance agent with New York Life Insurance Company. In 1977, Andy and Joanne moved to Dennison and bought The Ark, where they manufactured and sold concrete lawn ornaments, pottery, cheese, and other gifts for numerous years until their health required them to move closer to family in Dover. Their faith was nurtured for numerous years at Immaculate Conception in Dennison.

He is survived by his sons, Michael (Rose) Penso of Strasburg, Jeff Penso of Houston, TX, Kevin (Denise) Penso of Dennison, and Brian Penso of Houston, TX; his grandchildren, Mike (Jen) Penso, Stacee (Zack) Sparks, and Drew (Kristin) Penso; 4 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents and wife, Andy was preceded in death by two brothers and two sisters.

A private inurnment will be held in Calvary Cemetery at Dover alongside his wife, Joanne. The New Philadelphia VFW Post #1445 will render military honors and Father Jimmy Hatfield will officiate the graveside service.