Jacob J. Penner

Jacob J. Penner, 92 of Devils Lake formerly of Langdon and Starkweather, ND passed away on Monday, December 5, 2016 at Eventide Heartland Care Center, Devils Lake. Funeral Services for Jacob will be held on Tuesday, December 13, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. at the Gilbertson Funeral Home, Devils Lake with Reverend Lori Broschat, Pastor of First United Methodist Church officiating. Burial will be in the Devils Lake Cemetery. Jacob John, “JJ” was born on October 4, 1924 on the family farm, rural Langdon. He was the son of Jacob and Katherine Penner. He grew up and was educated in the Langdon area, attending a country school. Along with his brothers and sisters, he helped with the farming, ranching and all the chores to help his parents. On October 23, 1951, Jacob was united in marriage to his beloved Bessie Mae Balsdon. They lived on the farm by Langdon for a few years until purchasing their own farm west of Starkweather where they lived, worked and raised their son. In 1981, the family decided to move to Devils Lake but Jacob never spent any more time in Devils Lake than was absolutely necessary. He loved the farm, farm life, the great outdoors and open spaces, where he and his faithful canine companions (always a German Shepherd) could enjoy country life. Devils Lake was just never home for Jacob, but he was happy he could make life for Bessie a little easier in town. Jacob enjoyed membership in the Eagles Lodge and also was a member of the Odd Fellows. Jacob’s passion was farming, his commitments were faith and family and he treasured time spent with family and friends with all his heart. Jacob is survived by his son, Owen of Halstad, MN; his precious grandchildren Shelby Lane Penner and Brayden Jacob Penner; sisters, brothers, nieces and nephews and their families. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife of 61 years, Bessie on October 16, 2013 and several siblings.