Lyn “Penn” Penczak
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Lyn “Penn” Penczak, on January 31, 2026, at the age of 78, in Philadelphia, PA, after a brief illness.
A devoted mother and proud, adoring grandmother, Lyn lived life on her own terms. Strong-willed, independent, and unapologetically herself, she was known for her unconditional love of family, animals and plants — and, as she was rarely seen without them, her signature sunglasses.
Lyn is survived by her daughter Danalyn Russikoff (Ronald), her son Kristofer Penczak (Teresa) and her treasured grandchildren Sarah Penczak and Jeremy Penczak. She is also survived by her sister Joeann Meuller; niece Daniele DeGrandis; nephews Gene DeGrandis and Joshua Bartle; cousin Gail Sarlo; sister Cathy Crisp; brother Steven Boren; “bonus mom,” Helen Boren; uncle Daniel McElheney II; and many other relatives and friends who had a meaningful impact on her life.
Lyn was the daughter of the late Doris and Joseph Batcho, and birth father John Floyd Boren, and is predeceased by her sister Gail Stafford and her dear aunt Shirley Griffith.
In honor of Lyn’s wishes, a private Celebration of Life will be held by her family.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Lyn’s memory may be made to The Pet Adoption and Lifecare Society (PALS): https://www.palscatrescue.org/
Lyn’s legacy is one of love, resilience and authenticity — and she will be deeply missed.
Kris, I'm so very sorry to hear of the loss of your Mom, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers!!
Lyn was my only sister. I’ve never been on this earth without her. We were always close growing up, raising our families, & as adults. We were as different as we were alike & she said the same. We learned how to get along early on. My sister was generous, an animal lover & Mom to many of them. She was a great Mother to my niece & nephew. Loved her Grandchildren, & all her family! One shareable story; we worked together on many jobs. Once we decided to go after the same job. Lyn interviewed 1st, she shared what occurred. Then it was my turn. The owner asked me why should he hire me & not Lyn? I said that’s easy, I’m nicer to people than she is…. I told Lyn what I said & she said “Well, that’s true, I can’t stand people!” Which was the job! We both laughed so hard! I accepted the job, she said Good! We understood each other, not agreeable all the time, most of the time, However, we both have the same sense of humor & did we spend a lifetime laughing together! We had times of supporting each other or saying when we needed to help one’s self. I am very grateful to have had Lyn for my Sister. I miss her & not sure how to do this without her. I love her I hope she knows that truth. Her strength was remarkable & always was true to herself. Sure & steady. Funny & caring, especially for the underdog. Lyn was a giver, charitable, intelligent & funny & fought for what she believed was right. She sure was admirable & so beautiful! Glad she is my Sister. 🤍 🕊️
Sending my hearfelt confolences. Lyn was an amazing human, I used to love chatting with her at work, and always admired how she was unapologetically herself! Rest in peace Lyn, you will be missed.
Lyn and I were only together a couple of times since there is such a lot of miles to travel, but we always stayed in touch via phone. I loved her and will greatly miss our talks
Lyn and I were only together a couple of times since there is such a lot of miles to travel, but we always stayed in touch via phone. I loved her and will greatly miss our talks
Sending my hearfelt confolences. Lyn was an amazing human, I used to love chatting with her at work, and always admired how she was unapologetically herself!
Rest in peace Lyn, you will be missed.
Lyn was my only sister. I’ve never been on this earth without her. We were always close growing up, raising our families, & as adults. We were as different as we were alike & she said the same. We learned how to get along early on. My sister was generous, an animal lover & Mom to many of them. She was a great Mother to my niece & nephew. Loved her Grandchildren, & all her family!
One shareable story; we worked together on many jobs. Once we decided to go after the same job. Lyn interviewed 1st, she shared what occurred. Then it was my turn. The owner asked me why should he hire me & not Lyn? I said that’s easy, I’m nicer to people than she is…. I told Lyn what I said & she said “Well, that’s true, I can’t stand people!” Which was the job! We both laughed so hard! I accepted the job, she said Good!
We understood each other, not agreeable all the time, most of the time, However, we both have the same sense of humor & did we spend a lifetime laughing together! We had times of supporting each other or saying when we needed to help one’s self. I am very grateful to have had Lyn for my Sister. I miss her & not sure how to do this without her. I love her I hope she knows that truth. Her strength was remarkable & always was true to herself. Sure & steady. Funny & caring, especially for the underdog. Lyn was a giver, charitable, intelligent & funny & fought for what she believed was right. She sure was admirable & so beautiful!
Glad she is my Sister. 🤍 🕊️
Kris, I’m so very sorry to hear of the loss of your Mom, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers!!