Sterling Allen Penman, Jr., long time resident of Green Mountain Falls, Colorado, left this world to be with our Lord, on Wednesday, September 15th, 2021. He was 62 years of age.
Surviving him are his wife of 41 years, Janice Seelye Penman; his daughters, Natalie Penman Gum (Matt) and Nicole Penman Berry (Chris); grandchildren, Sterling Gum, Hunter Gum, and Laney Berry; his mother, Patricia Quinn Penman; his siblings, Paige Wilkinson (Dave) and Mike Penman (Anne); his parents-in-law, Chuck and Joanne Seelye; and many beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his “Pappy,” Sterling Penman Sr., who was his lifelong mentor and friend.
Born in Colorado Springs on November 13, 1958, Sterling grew up exploring the landscape of the Ute Pass area as a fourth generation resident of Green Mountain Falls. Sterling graduated from Manitou Springs High School in 1976. He went on to play football at Western State College and rugby at Colorado State University where he fell in love with his wife, Janice. Together they raised two daughters, whom he taught to face life with bravery, honesty, and enthusiasm. Raising Natalie and Nicole was his pure joy. His happiness grew as they married men who became the ‘sons’ he’d always wanted and again multiplied as they became mothers to grandchildren whom he adored, taught and encouraged.
Beginning in the 1970's, Sterling followed in his father’s footsteps. Together they built magnificent homes around the Pikes Peak region alongside Mike and nephew, Zach Penman. In his last decade, Sterling found passion in restoring antique gas pumps and other petroliana collectibles. His collection is diverse and is proudly displayed in his dream workshop.
He lived his life fully and enthusiastically with great honesty, humor, work ethic, courage and selflessness. He diligently protected, cared for and provided for his family, friends and even strangers. To know him was to love him, and so many were blessed by the way he lived for others.
A celebration of life will take place on Sunday, October 10th at 1pm at the Sallie Bush Community Building,10795 Ute Pass Avenue in Green Mountain Falls. Reception for family and friends to follow.
Watching his grandsons play hockey was a favorite activity for Sterling. Their home games (if it’s COLD enough) are played outdoor at the Meadow Wood Sports Complex in Woodland Park. Someday they hope to have a roof over the rink! In light of this, donations can be made in memory of Sterling to:
Woodland Park Hockey Association
c/o Janice Penman
PO Box 785
Cascade CO 80809
To send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of Sterling Allen Penman Jr., please visit our floral store.