Born in Carbonear in 1932, Penney was the eldest of 12 children.
In recognition of his personal generosity and commitment to his community, he was named to the Order of Canada in 2010 and to the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador in 2011, and was awarded an honorary doctorate from Memorial University of Newfoundland.
Known as a quiet philanthropist, he supported an array of charitable and non-profit organizations, such as the Canadian Red Cross, the Salvation Army, the General Hospital Health Foundation, Junior Achievement and the YMCA-YWCA. He was also involved with the Kinsmen Club and Rotary.
The Telegram will feature a tribute to the business leader in The Weekend edition.