Gloria Marie Penenger

Gloria Marie Penenger, age 77, of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away peacefully on January 30, 2026. She was born on November 7, 1948, in Des Moines, where she spent most of her life and built a home centered on love and family.

Gloria was the daughter of Leslie Eugene Valentine and Catherine Elizabeth (Staver) Rogers. She was a middle child in a family of six and grew up in the Des Moines area, where she formed lifelong connections and values that shaped who she was.

She was united in marriage to Dennis Penenger, with whom she shared over 48 loving years before his passing in 2015. Together they raised two daughters, Lori and Cathy, who were the pride and joy of her life. Family was always Gloria's greatest priority, and she devoted herself fully to caring for and supporting those she loved.

Raised Catholic, Gloria's faith remained an important part of her life and guided her with quiet strength and compassion. She was known for her nurturing and generous spirit, always ready to help, listen, or lend a hand. Gloria loved to cook and took great joy in feeding others, whether through everyday meals or special gatherings. She also enjoyed gardening, spending time outdoors, and appreciating the simple beauty of nature.

Above all, Gloria was a lot of fun. She had a warm presence, a caring heart, and a way of making people feel welcome and loved. Her kindness, laughter, and devotion to family will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.

Gloria is survived by her daughters, Lori Schiltz and Cathy Penenger (Hans); grandchildren, Steven Penenger, Tessa Welch (Rodney), Collin Schiltz (Ava), Lena Ploessel, Hannah Mcewen (Beckett) and Bailey Penenger (Dustin); great-grandchildren, Addie, Hudson and Oaklee; brother, David Rogers; sister, Carla Daly (Marshall); niece, Christine Stratton (Bill); nephews, Dan Henderson (Julie), Rob Henderson and Phillip Daly; daughter-from-another-mother-and-father, Erica; and adopted granddaughter, Heidi.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; sister, Virginia Hopkins; and brothers Danny Rogers and Steve Rogers

There will be a Celebration of Life with family and close friends at a later date in the summer (Gloria never liked the winter).