Robert Thomas Penne, 69, of Grinnell, died from a sudden cardiorespiratory event at his home on Wednesday, March 18, 2026.

Friends are invited to a celebration of life gathering held at Grinnell Craft Brew House from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Thursday, March 26, 2026.

A Mass will be held at 10:00 AM, Friday, March 27, 2026, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Grinnell with Fr. Dominic Nguyen officiating. A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service beginning at 9:00 AM. Burial will be held at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Waterloo, IA.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be designated to the Claude W. and Dolly Ahrens Foundation. Memorials and cards of condolence may be mailed in care of Smith Funeral Home, PO Box 368, Grinnell, IA 50112.

Bob was born on January 17, 1957. He was raised by his parents John "Jack" and Rita Meisch Penne in Grinnell. He grew up in a wonderful neighborhood and during his childhood spent countless hours at the Grinnell Country Club playing golf, swimming, and fishing just blocks from his home. He graduated from Grinnell High School with the class of 1975, where he participated on both the football and golf teams. He later graduated from Northeast Missouri State University earning a bachelor's degree.

Bob worked for several companies as a roof inspector in Minnesota and Iowa. He went on to start his own BBQ catering business, Smoking Hog Pit Stop BBQ and continuing throughout the years to share his passion for BBQ as a pit boss. Bob later worked for Sumner Tree Service. More recently, he was a scale house/heavy equipment manager at Farm Nutrients. He had been looking forward to retirement, with plans to spend more time hunting and fishing.

Bob was an avid outdoorsman with a deep passion for hunting and fishing. He took many trips to Minnesota for fishing and to South Dakota for hunting alongside his beloved dogs, each one named Cole. He also enjoyed boating and waterskiing with his parents during weekends on the water.

In addition, Bob enjoyed riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle, gardening, and following sports. He understood the value of hard work and cherished his friendships. He will be remembered as a loyal and trusted friend to many.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Rita Penne, and sister, Mary Beth Penne. He is survived by cousins and many friends.