Gary L. Pennington, age 72, passed away on Thursday evening, August 7, 2025, at HCA HealthONE Swedish Medical Center in Denver, Colorado, following injuries sustained in a farm accident on July 11th.

Born on November 29, 1952, in Meade, Kansas, Gary was the son of Robert and Wilma (Kobs) Pennington. He grew up in Meade, where he attended local schools and graduated as valedictorian of Meade High School's Class of 1971. A gifted athlete, Gary held multiple track records at Meade High School—records that stood for over 50 years. In recognition of his achievements, he was inducted into the Meade High School Hall of Fame in 2024.

Gary continued his education at Garden City Community College on a track scholarship before transferring to Kansas State University, where he graduated cum laude in 1975 with his agronomy degree.

After college, Gary returned to Meade to pursue his true passion—farming and ranching. Though other career paths were available to him, Gary often said he loved the land and loved farming. It was more than a profession; it was a calling.

He was a devoted member of the United Methodist Church, actively participating in the United Methodist Men group and serving on various church committees. His commitment to community extended beyond the church, as he served on the Meade County Extension Board, supported 4-H programs, and coached youth sports.

Gary found joy in reading, tinkering with mechanical and computer projects, cheering on Kansas State sports, and most of all, spending time with his family—especially his grandchildren.

In 1976, Gary married Brenda Hunt in Lyons, Kansas. Together, they built a life rooted in love and dedication, celebrating 49 years of marriage. Their home in Meade was filled with warmth, laughter, and the values they cherished.

Gary is survived by his wife, Brenda; his children, Marcy Lynn and husband Tony of Meade, and Aaron Pennington and wife Emily of Shawnee, Kansas; his mother, Wilma Pennington of Meade; two sisters, Nancy Carleton of San Antonio, Texas, and Jacque Wallis of Ft. Collins, Colorado; and five beloved grandchildren: Vincent, Samuel, and Laura Lynn, and Whitney and Alice Pennington.

Gary was preceded in death by his father, Robert L. "Bob" Pennington; his paternal grandparents, Roy and Ada Pennigton; his maternal grandparents, Edwin and Ethel Kobs; all of Meade.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at the United Methodist Church in Meade. Interment will follow at Graceland Cemetery. Friends may call from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, August 18, with family present from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Fidler-Orme-Bachman Mortuary in Meade.

Memorials are suggested to the United Methodist Church or the Meade Public Library, in care of the funeral home.

Gary will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his love of the land, and the legacy of kindness, integrity, and dedication he leaves behind.