Arnold “Arnie” Penette

Arnold “Arnie” Patrick Penette, age 78, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Born on December 18, 1946, in Pontiac, Michigan, Arnie was the son of August and Lilian (Vick) Penette. He graduated from Pontiac Northern High School in 1965 before proudly serving his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. Arnie built a longtime career in sales with Bar and Kenwal Steel, where he was respected for his hard work, loyalty, and easygoing nature. On February 6, 1984, he married the love of his life, Denise Penette —a partnership that remained strong for more than four decades. A warm-weather enthusiast, Arnie cherished his winters in Las Vegas, where he spent quality time with his son and close friends, and he enjoyed summers in Michigan with Denise. He had a deep love for golf, whether on the course or watching the Golf Channel, and he will be remembered as a loyal friend who treasured the people in his life. Arnie was preceded in death by his beloved son, Michael Penette. He is survived by his wife, Denise Penette; his children, Andrew Penette, Ashley (Penette) and Bret Wheatlake; and his grandchildren, Emma, Liam, and a baby girl due in January. Cremation has taken place, and a celebration of life will be held at a later date so family and friends can gather to honor Arnie’s memory. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and doctors at Trinity Health for their compassionate care.