Penelope karrenbrock MO Death-Obituary: It is with great sadness that the family of Penelope Karrenbrock announces her passing on November 23, 2024, at the age of 56. Penelope, known to all who loved her as “Penny,” was a lifelong resident of Charles County, Missouri, and a respected leader in the local construction industry. As the co-owner and operations manager of Karrenbrock Construction Inc., Penny’s commitment to her family, her work, and her community left an indelible mark that will not soon be forgotten. Her sudden and unexpected passing has left her family, friends, colleagues, and the entire Charles County community in shock, but her legacy will continue to inspire those who knew her.
Penelope Ann Karrenbrock was born on April 7, 1968, in St. Charles, Missouri, to Carl and Diane Karrenbrock. From a young age, Penny demonstrated a strong sense of independence, intelligence, and a work ethic that would later define her life. Growing up in Charles County, she was active in school, excelling academically and participating in various extracurricular activities, including sports and community service projects. She quickly gained a reputation as a leader, someone who was both capable and compassionate, qualities that she would carry with her throughout her life.
Penny graduated from Francis Howell North High School in 1986, where she was known for her leadership skills, academic excellence, and her involvement in student government. Her peers admired her for her ability to balance her academic responsibilities with her social and extracurricular commitments. Penny’s desire to make a difference was evident even in high school, and she was often found volunteering for various causes or mentoring younger students.
After high school, Penny attended the University of Missouri-St. Louis, where she earned a degree in business administration. She chose this path because of her natural ability to organize, lead, and manage people—skills that would serve her well in her future career in the construction industry. Throughout her college years, Penny remained connected to her community in Charles County, often returning home to volunteer and stay involved in local activities. Her college professors remember her as a dedicated student with a passion for learning and a clear vision of what she wanted to achieve in life.
After college, Penny returned to Charles County and joined the family business, Karrenbrock Construction Inc., which was founded by her father, Carl, in the 1970s. The company specialized in residential and commercial construction, and under Carl’s leadership, it had built a reputation for quality and reliability in the region. Penny, however, was determined to take the company to new heights. She brought fresh ideas, an innovative approach to management, and a strong vision for the company’s future
Penelope’s role in the business evolved over the years. She initially took on administrative responsibilities, managing the day-to-day operations of the company. As the company expanded, Penny’s responsibilities grew. She took on a leadership role in overseeing construction projects, managing client relationships, and ensuring that Karrenbrock Construction maintained its commitment to quality. Under her leadership, the company flourished, taking on larger projects and gaining an even greater reputation for excellence in the construction industry.
What set Penny apart in her role at Karrenbrock Construction was her ability to balance the technical aspects of the business with her innate people skills. She was not only a highly skilled businesswoman, but she also cared deeply for her employees and clients. Her colleagues describe her as a mentor who was always willing to listen, offer guidance, and help others grow. Penny took great pride in cultivating a positive work environment, and many of the employees at Karrenbrock Construction had been with the company for decades, thanks to her leadership and support.
Penny’s dedication to her work was evident in the results. Over the years, Karrenbrock Construction expanded its reach throughout Charles County and beyond, becoming one of the most well-regarded construction companies in the region. The company’s success was a testament to Penny’s vision, determination, and ability to build strong, lasting relationships with clients, contractors, and suppliers.
Penny was not only a successful businesswoman, but she was also a devoted wife and mother. In 1993, she married her college sweetheart, Michael Karrenbrock, who was also deeply involved in the family business. Together, they raised two children, Megan and Ryan, both of whom grew up to become active members of the local community.
Family was always Penny’s top priority, and she made sure to balance her demanding career with a fulfilling family life. She was a loving and supportive mother, always involved in her children’s activities and school events. Whether it was coaching soccer, volunteering at school fundraisers, or simply spending quality time together at home, Penny was fully dedicated to her family. Her children remember her as a guiding force, offering support, advice, and encouragement in every aspect of their lives. She often said that her greatest accomplishment was watching her children grow into the confident, compassionate adults they are today.
Outside of her professional and family commitments, Penny was also deeply involved in her community. She was a long-time member of the St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce and volunteered with various local charities, including Habitat for Humanity and the St. Charles Community Foundation. Penny believed strongly in giving back to the community that had supported her and her family for so many years. She also served on the board of several local nonprofit organizations and was always looking for ways to make a positive impact in the lives of others.
Her commitment to her community extended to her support for local businesses. As a businesswoman, Penny worked tirelessly to advocate for the growth and development of Charles County, helping to create a thriving environment for local entrepreneurs and small business owners. Her efforts were recognized by her peers, and she received numerous accolades for her work in promoting local economic growth and development.
On November 23, 2024, Penny was tragically involved in a car accident while driving home from a business meeting in St. Charles. The accident occurred on Interstate 70, and despite the valiant efforts of first responders, Penny succumbed to her injuries at the scene. The news of her passing has sent shockwaves through her family, friends, and colleagues, as well as the entire Charles County community.
Penny’s death has left an irreplaceable void in the lives of those who knew her. Her family, friends, and colleagues are mourning the loss of a woman who was not only a successful business leader but also a kind, compassionate, and caring individual who gave of herself freely to those around her. Penny’s passing marks the end of an era for Karrenbrock Construction, but her legacy will continue through the work she did and the relationships she built.
The outpouring of grief from the Charles County community has been overwhelming. Friends, colleagues, and clients have shared their memories of Penny, describing her as a woman of integrity, strength, and generosity. Her family has expressed their heartfelt thanks for the support they have received during this incredibly difficult time.
A memorial service will be held for Penny at St. Charles Catholic Church, where family, friends, and colleagues will gather to celebrate her life and honor her memory. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to the Karrenbrock Foundation, a charity that Penny established to support local construction workers and their families in need.
Penelope Karrenbrock’s passing is a great loss to her family, her business, and her community. A woman of remarkable achievements, Penny’s legacy will live on through the work she did, the lives she touched, and the love she shared. As the co-owner and operations manager of Karrenbrock Construction, Penny’s vision and leadership helped shape the company into a cornerstone of the Charles County construction industry. But it was her kindness, compassion, and dedication to her family and community that truly defined her.
Penny is survived by her husband, Michael, her children, Megan and Ryan, her parents, Carl and Diane Karrenbrock, her sister, and many extended family members, friends, and colleagues. Her legacy of hard work, leadership, and love will continue to inspire all who knew her.
