Remembering with so much love, Arlene Neiman Penner April 25, 1931 - October 13, 2026. Beloved wife, devoted mother and grandma, friend to so many, teacher, entrepreneur, world traveler and gracious hostess.
Born to Anna and William Neiman in Akron, Ohio, she was very close to her siblings: Sylvia Posner, Harold Neiman (Casey), Maurice Neiman (Lil), Libby Lawrence (Leslie) of blessed memory and Jack (Harriet) Neiman.
In 1951, Arlene married Ronald Penner (Z”L), the love of her life. She was the proud mother of Barbara Penner Beckert (Ed), Milwaukee, WI; Mark Penner, Fort Lauderdale, FL; Richard Penner, Lombard, IL; and Wendy Penner (Steve Fein), Williamstown, MA; devoted grandma of Max (Lindsay), Jake, Alina, and Hannah.
Arlene graduated from the University of Akron and worked as a teacher to help support Ron through law school. In addition to her work as a teacher, wife, and mother, she was a travel agent, and was co-owner of The Dressing Room, a women's clothing store with her dear friend Eileen Schneir. She was a great cook and warm hostess who loved entertaining.
Arlene’s love of world travel began when she and Ron lived in Japan for several years during Ron’s service in the Army JAG (Judge Advocate General’s Corps). Over the years they explored the world together and traveled to six of the seven continents. After Ron retired, they made their home in Boca Raton and enjoyed family, friends, bridge, tennis, and sunshine. The family matriarch, she loved the annual family reunions, bringing family together from across the country to spend the holidays together.
Services will be Thursday, October 15 at 1:30 pm at Star of David Funeral Home Chapel, 7701 Bailey Rd, North Lauderdale. Donations in Arlene’s memory to Jewish Family Service of Akron, Hadassah, or the Pap Corps (cancer research).
