Obituary of Robert Varian Pennington

Robert Varian Pennington, a beloved husband, father, and friend has passed. Born in Coweta, Oklahoma, Robert, fondly known as Bob, was raised by his devoted mother, Gladys, and his grandfather. When Bob was age 13, Gladys married Ray Pennington and together the three settled in Bellingham, Washington. It was in the Pacific Northwest that Bob's lifelong passions for the mountains and the sea were born.

Bob flourished in the stunning natural beauty of the region. Winters found him on the slopes of Mt. Baker as a member of the ski patrol while summers were spent sailing the San Juan Islands and fishing the serene waters. These early experiences shaped the adventurer and outdoorsman he would remain throughout his life.

Bob pursued higher education at Whitman College in Walla Walla, Washington, where he graduated with a bachelor's degree majoring in both economics and psychology. In 1954, at the conclusion of his college years, Bob joined the US Army where he was stationed in Europe. Upon completing his military service, Bob launched his illustrious career in the financial services industry, beginning as a stockbroker with Dean Witter in Tacoma, Washington. Talented and ambitious with an uncanny ability to bring insight to complex challenges, Bob ascended the ranks, serving as Branch Manager in Portland, Oregon, then as Southwest Regional Manager in Houston, Texas. Ultimately, Bob's career took him to New York City, where he was the Executive Vice President of Sales for Dean Witter Reynolds, one of the nation's largest brokerage firms.

Ever the curious visionary, Bob then transitioned into the asset management segment of the industry, spearheading the high-net-worth division at The Capital Group. Under his leadership, this division became a hallmark of excellence, marking the culmination of Bob's extraordinary professional journey.

Even in retirement, Bob's dedication to meaningful work continued. As a member of the board of trustees at the Heritage Foundation in Washington, D.C., he championed the values of conservative thought and leadership, leaving an indelible mark on his community and country.

Beyond his professional and civic contributions, Bob's adventurous spirit remained a guiding force. As a skilled sailor, his love for the sea inspired countless ocean journeys in both the Atlantic and Pacific, aboard vessels he captained with pride and expertise. He also had a deep appreciation for art and was an accomplished photographer in his own right. His Faces of Mongolia collection became an exhibition at the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery.

Bob's legacy is carried on by his devoted wife, Joan, his children, Mark and Becky, their spouses Emma and Rich, grandchildren Nelson, Darren and Charlotte, and great grandchild Lillian, along with the many lives he touched with his kindness, wisdom, and unyielding spirit.

Robert Varian Pennington's life was one of adventure, achievement, and devotion. He will be deeply missed but forever cherished in the hearts of all who knew him.

.A private family service will be held to honor his remarkable life, and a celebration of his legacy will follow at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his memory to a cause that inspires your own sense of adventure and commitment to excellence. Rest in peace, Bob. You've climbed your final peak and set sail on your grandest journey yet.