Michael Joseph Penniman

GARDNER - Michael Joseph Penniman passed away suddenly on July 24th, 2025 in Gardner, MA due to complications from emergency surgery.

Michael was born on January 5th, 1992, and was 33 years old. He was the beloved son of Thomas and Jean (Bartlett) Penniman, and the brother of Jenny, Amy, and Jason.

He is predeceased by his brother, John Penniman, and grandparents, Shirley and William Penniman. He is survived by his grandmother, Eleanor West, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Michael attended school at several special needs collaboratives, including CAPS in Gardner, FLACC in Ayer/Shirley, and LABBB in Lexington. Most recently he attended the GAMHA program in Gardner. He was residing in a special needs group home, also in Gardner, run by Seven Hills.

In spite of his many mental and physical challenges, Michael was one of the happiest people you would ever meet. He loved life, he loved his family, he loved God, and he wanted to go to Heaven. He especially shared a deep bond of love with his sisters who spent many years selflessly helping to care for him.

While it would be easy to feel sorry for Michael, it would be a mistake because he never once complained about his situation but was only concerned with those around him.

His undying love for his family was always on display. We couldn’t be more proud to call Michael our son and brother. We thank God for the many years we were blessed to have him.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and all the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Please pray for Michael’s soul.

Visitation will be from 9:00 am - 10:00 am on Friday, August 1st at St. Benedict Abbey, 252 Still River Rd., Still River, MA, followed by a Requiem Mass at 10:00 am. Burial will follow at St. Anthony’s Cemetery, Shaker Road, Shirley, MA.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Michael’s memory to St. Benedict Abbey, 252 Still River Rd., Still River MA, 01467.