John R. Penso

John Ralph Penso, 86, of Mineral City, passed away following a year-long battle with cancer on March 12, 2023 in the Community Hospice Truman House.

Born in Dover on December 7, 1936, he was one of five children of the late Paul L. and Mary L. (DiGenova) Penso.

After completing his formal education, John continued his parents’ family business, Pizza by Penso. Upon retirement, he sold the pizza shops to his sons to continue the family legacy.

John enjoyed working crossword puzzles and boating on Atwood Lake with his wife and family in his free time.

John married the former Pauline E. Colin on May 17, 1958. In addition to Pauline, he is survived by his children, Paul “Kent” (Lisa) Penso, Roxanne (Darrel) Neice, Naomi (Glenn) Burky, John Penso, II, and Zach (Misty) Penso; 16 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren and one expected soon; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held in the Geib Funeral Center at Dover on Monday, March 20 from 4 to 7 p.m. A service celebrating John’s life will be held in the funeral home on Tuesday beginning at 11 a.m. with visitation one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow in New Cumberland Cemetery at Mineral City.

Memorial contributions in John’s memory may be directed to either Community Hospice, 716 Commercial Ave. SW, New Philadelphia, OH 44663 or Lake Drive Fellowship, 8158 Lake Dr NE, Mineral City, OH 44656.