Obituary of Neil Joseph Pennick

NEIL JOSEPH PENNICK Latham- Neil Joseph Pennick, 66, of Latham passed away peacefully on Wednesday February 22, 2017 in the comfort of his home with his loving wife by his side. Born in Troy on July 20, 1950, he was the son of the late Alphonsus and Carmella (Ciannamea) Pennick. Neil was married to the former Nancy O'Malley on January 21, 1998 and the two shared a union of 19 years prior to his passing. Neil was a graduate of Catholic High School and HVCC. Neil was discharged with honors from the United States Army in 1972 and had a twenty-seven year career with the Troy Fire Department. In addition he also had worked for several years with Centenini Masonry. Neil accomplished so much in his short life and was fondly referred to as the "Gumba," the "Silver Stallion," and the "Best Dressed Mason" by his friends and co-workers. He cherished the times spent with his "brothers" from the Troy Fire Department. Neil loved being with his family and enjoyed the simple pleasures in life. He took time to enjoy all nature especially bird watching, hunting, fishing, and gardening. One of his most proud possessions was an all original 1965 Black Ford Falcon which symbolized his passion for the finer things in life being an avid car enthusiast. Neil's continuous appreciation of history was apparent in his eclectic collections, books, and movies and he eagerly shared this knowledge with others. Neil will be remembered as a kind, gentle man with a heart of gold and a mentor to many. In addition to his beloved wife: Nancy Porcaro-Pennick of Latham he is survived by his five loving children: Neichole Keefer of Troy, Anthony (Amy) Pennick of Schaghticoke, Anne Marie Porcaro of New York City, Anthony Porcaro of Malta and Adam Porcaro of Latham, two cherished grandchildren: Ashley (Brian) Beaudoin, Andrew Keefer and adored great grandson: Cooper Beaudoin. He is also survived by his three siblings: Lisa Hamedani of Clifton Park, Alan (Kathy) Pennick of Colonie. Holly (Steven) Ackerknecht of Cobleskill. Relatives and friends are invited and may call on Sunday February 26, 2017 from 1:00-4:00 p.m. at the Dufresne & Cavanaugh Funeral Home, 149 Old Loudon Rd., Latham Funeral services will be celebrated with departmental honors from the Troy Fire Department and the United States Army at the conclusion of the visitation Sunday at 4:00 p.m.at the funeral home with Rev. Nick TeBordo officiating. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to NYOH Community Cancer Foundation, 449 Route 146, Suite 101, Clifton Park, New York 12065 For directions, information, to light a memory candle or order flowers for the family please visit www.dufresneandcavanaugh.com.