William Penn

William B. Penn, age 99, of Erie, PA, passed away peacefully at his residence on Sunday March 26, 2017. He was born in Lawrence, MA on May 2, 1917.

He was the son of the late Abraham Penn and Goldie (Gussie) Levine Penn.

A graduate of Lawrence High School, he received both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and a R.Ph. certification from the Boston School of Pharmacy.

For 42 years, both in Lynn, Massachusetts and Erie, PA, General Electric Company employed Mr. Penn. He served as a consultant on insulation for the US Navy and other companies and agencies. Mr. Penn also served as the only US representative for the development of the international ISO standards. Additionally he received 9 patents.

Bill was a Life Fellow of IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) and a current Life Member of the American Chemical Society having maintained his membership for 77 years.

When GE transferred the family to Erie in 1956, they joined Temple Anshe Hesed. They became members of the Couples Club, the Sisterhood, and Men's Club. Bill served on nominating and Rabbi search committees, delivered Meals on Wheels on holidays, and conducted Friday Night services. Bill, Libby and their children are credited with funding a collection of Jewish audiotapes for the Temple Library. Bill served on the Temple board in many capacities up through all the vice-presidencies to become the President from 1973 to 1975. He was also principal of the Temple Sunday School and taught confirmation classes.

In addition to his parents and sister, Mildred, he is preceded in death by his wife, Libby, who died in 2014 after 71 years of marriage. His daughter, Laurie Penn of Southfield, Michigan, survives him. Son, Roger, and his wife, Gerri, of Atlanta, Georgia, also survive him. Five grandchildren and their spouses, ten great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces and nephews further survive him.

Friends may call at Temple Anshe Hesed, 930 Liberty Street, Erie, PA on Monday, April 3,, 2017 at 11:30 a.m. until the time of service there at 12:00 p.m. Rabbi Emily Losben will officiate. Internment will be at Laurel Hill Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Temple Anshe Hesed, 930 Liberty Street, Erie, PA 16502.

Arrangements are entrusted to Burton Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc. 602 West 10th Street, Erie, PA 16502-1223.