Born January 11, 1955, in Ogden, Utah, to Charles L. and Mary Chapman Pennington, Mark was never one to follow the expected path. Coming from a family with a long history of military service and distinguished accomplishments, Mark carved out a life entirely his own. A true free spirit and quintessential ’70s hippie, he was a little wild, a little rebellious, a whole lot stubborn, and never particularly interested in being told what to do.

His younger years were filled with adventures, some more questionable than others, and enough stories to keep his family entertained for a lifetime. Mark never shied away from sharing the ridiculous parts of his past, the lessons he learned, or the adventures that came along the way. If you knew Mark, chances are you’d heard some of his stories more than once. And somehow, they never got old.

Mark was a talented carpenter who spent his life building landmarks and community spaces throughout the Wasatch Front, including City Creek Mall and McKay-Dee Hospital. He had a gift for building and fixing just about anything, and retirement didn’t put an end to that passion as he spent years building furniture that showcased his craftsmanship and creativity.

Mark was a National Champion Arm Wrestler. His collection of trophies was a testament to the strength, determination, and competitive spirit he carried throughout his life. Mark’s greatest accomplishments, however, weren’t something that could be measured in trophies or carpentry, rather in the relationships he built.

Mark may not have always seemed like the warmest person at first glance, but once you got past that stubborn exterior, you found a man with an incredible amount of love to give.

He maintained friendships that spanned over 60 years, while continuing to welcome new friends throughout his life. He had a genuine heart and an unmistakable willingness to help anyone who needed it.

For more than 40 years, Mark’s close friends hosted a beloved annual Memorial Day gathering, affectionately known as the D.A.M.M. Party – “Drunks Against Mad Mothers.” – A tongue-in-cheek name he and his lifelong friends created after the formation of M.A.D.D.

Mark affectionately became known as “The Captain” during those gatherings, so when his close friend stepped back from hosting, it was only right that “The Captain” took it over. The gathering became an unofficial kickoff to summer and a tradition that brought together old friends, new faces, neighbors, and complete strangers. Everyone was welcome.

With his best friend Mitch often manning the barbecue, Mark could usually be found at the horseshoe pit until dark, eventually making his way to the bonfire or joining friends as local favorite Saddle Strings played for hours.

The event was more than a party, it was a reflection of Mark himself; a man who loved his people, cherished his friendships, and knew the value of Connection.

He enjoyed country music, motorcycles, golf, skiing, NASCAR, arm-wrestling, and spending time with the people who mattered to him.

Mark’s life was not without its struggles. He experienced seasons of tremendous happiness and seasons of hardship, navigating his own demons and challenges along the way. He was not a perfect man, nor would he have pretended to be. But he was a man who lived, learned, loved, and made his own choices.

A year and a half before his passing, Mark was faced with the possibility of a serious illness. Rather than spend his remaining time pursuing answers, he chose to simply live the remainder of his life in peace with his wife, Joni Pennington.

Mark is survived by his son, Matt Pennington; his daughters, Lacy and Jessica Pennington; his loving wife, Joni and her 9 children; their combined 35 grandchildren; and sisters, Margaret “Peggy” Harrison and Michelle Verhaal.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Mary; his brothers, John and George; and his sister, Julie.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, November 21, 2026, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Community Center at Lindquist’s Office Building, 3434 Washington Blvd.

In true Mark fashion, we hope wherever he is, there’s good music, a little mischief and absolutely nobody telling him what to do.

Condolences may be shared at: www.lindquistmortuary.com.