Russell (“Russ”) Penick was known for his big heart, generous spirit, keen intellectual curiosity, love of music, extensive culinary skills, and talent for finding humor in every situation. He was a loving son and brother and steadfast friend to all who had the pleasure to know him.
Russ grew up in Greenville, South Carolina surrounded by a warm and loving family. He was the son of Dr. R.W. and Joanne Penick. Their tradition of generous community service led to his many years of volunteering. Russ dedicated himself to every task he undertook and he achieved the status of Eagle Scout within the Boy Scout organization. He returned years later to serve as scout leader for his old scout troop and continually looked for ways to give back to the community.
From a young age, Russ loved to cook and to share the fruits of his labor with others. In his teen years, Russ was selected from a large pool of candidates to work in the formal dining room of the well-known Greenville fine dining restaurant, Vince Perone’s. Russ absorbed all that he learned and shared his knowledge of gourmet dining and the etiquette that accompanied it with countless children in need and worked to equip them with the skills they needed to achieve success in their careers and to feel comfortable in any setting. In his mother’s later years, Russ cooked and delivered gourmet meals to her home so that she always had a beautiful and delicious meal waiting for her in her refrigerator. He delighted in organizing celebratory events for his family and friends.
An entrepreneur at heart, Russ founded Spa Tech early in his professional career. He was known for his technical expertise, meticulous attention to detail, and the care that he took with each client. The motto of his business was “Difficult repairs in a few minutes. . . Impossible will take just a little longer.” Russ’s dedication to providing excellent customer service led to Spa Tech growing into a successful and sought-after spa service company.
Russ had a lifelong love of music, played musical instruments ranging from the trumpet to the synthesizer, and created many musical compositions. His music enriched the lives of his family and friends and they are examples of his intellectual curiosity and his willingness to take artistic risks. Russ also enjoyed racing vintage sports cars and was a member of the Clemson Sports Car Club. An adventurer at heart, Russ enjoyed navigating the windy North Carolina mountain roads whenever he could get away for an afternoon of fun. He was an enthusiastic participant in the Clemson club races and folded his 6'4" body into his little Triumph TR7. Russ also was an excellent marksman and in his younger years enjoyed outdoor sports ranging from skeet shooting to rock climbing.
Russ is survived by his beloved sister, Patricia (“Trish”) Louise Penick, his aunt Dorothy Gumpert, and cousins Kathy Gumpert Buckley and Alicia Gumpert Shiels. His mother and father predeceased him. Russ and Trish shared an offbeat sense of humor and a unique bond. He truly treasured the many gifts that came from being in her presence. Although Trish lived a long distance away for many years, they stayed in close touch throughout Russ’s life. Trish was by his side during his spinal cord surgery and recovery and this even deepened their relationship. Their mutual respect and love for each other was evident to all who knew Russ.
A memorial service will be held at St. James Episcopal Church on February 9, 2023, at 11:00. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Dr. R. W. Penick, M.D. MPH Endowment Fund at the Community Foundation of Greenville.
Always a gentleman, Russ enjoyed being a host and loved to share his many culinary talents with family and friends. Many were fortunate to call him friend. Russ’s friends describe him as “a gentle giant of a man with the biggest heart and most unique sense of humor.” His family and friends will treasure his memory always and continue his legacy in acts of hospitality and generosity
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mackeycenturydrive.com for the Penick family.
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