Janet "Jan" Sue Pennell, age 80, of New Haven, IN passed into God's loving embrace on Thursday, May 15 ^th , 2025 in Fort Wayne, IN. Born in Fort Wayne , IN, on September 5 ^th ,1944 to the late Charles E. and Mary R. Tackwell, Jan was baptized at St. Peter's Lutheran Church and confirmed at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church. She later became a faithful member of St. Peter's Lutheran Church and Emmanuel Lutheran Church with her husband, David. Janet dedicated her career to caring for others as a registered nurse in Fort Wayne, retiring from both Parkview Hospital and Orthopedics Northeast.

Jan was united in marriage to the love of her life David Pennell on November 2 ^nd , 1968, at Peace Lutheran Church. Jan and Dave were avid travelers and spent many years making memories camping with their three children. This passion to explore led their adventures through all 50 states and throughout Canada. Jan was also a talented seamstress and devoted quilter, bringing warmth and beauty to every creation—many of which are still cherished by those who received them. Among her most treasured pieces were the many family heirlooms in which every stitch was filled with love.

One of Jan's favorite daily activities was feeding and watching the native birds that flocked to her feeders. If a new bird arrived, she was quick to find the right food and watch them quietly from her window. Being a mother was one of Jan's greatest joys, and becoming a grandmother brought her even greater happiness. Her grandchildren were the light of her later years, and she rarely missed a school function or event, always there to cheer them on with pride and love. With her ever-present smile and uplifting spirit, Jan had a gift for bringing people together and encouraging those around her.

Janet is survived by her husband of 56 years, David Pennell;  children, Kevin Pennell, Eric Pennell, and Michelle (Patrick) Pennell-Madden;  three grandchildren, Vanessa Pennell, Ethan Madden, and Isabel Madden;  siblings, Cindy (Dave) Huffman, Tom (Lorna) Tackwell, and Greg Tackwell; and many nieces and nephews.

She was also preceded in death by three siblings, Judy Coyne, Steve Tackwell, and Sharon McCann.

Service is 11:00 am, Saturday, May 24 ^th , 2025 at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 917 W. Jefferson Blvd. with calling one hour prior.  Calling also 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm, Friday, May 23 ^rd , 2025 at Fairhaven Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 6557 N. Clinton St. Memorials may be made to Emmanuel Lutheran Church.  To sign the online guestbook go to, www.fairhavenfortwayne.com