Scott Alan Penninger, 63, of Elkhart, passed away peacefully on August 18, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. In his final days, he was surrounded by love and comfort in the Mishawaka home of his daughter, Chelsea, who had been his greatest joy and proudest accomplishment.

Born in Elkhart on May 12, 1962, Scott was the son of the late Raymond C. Penninger and Tokalee (Papa) Penninger Stanley. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Raymond J. Penninger; his sister Toka M. Stanley,  and his beloved fiancée, Carmen R. Schipper. Though Carmen had passed many years earlier, Scott's devotion to her never faded—he continued to love her "to the moon and back" for the rest of his life.

Scott is survived by his daughter, Chelsea (Milez) Penninger of Mishawaka; his grandchildren, Trinity and Carson Edmonson of Mishawaka, Lexie (Dylan) Wakeland of New Haven, Indiana, Cameron (Kylie) Geiger of Huntington, Indiana, Lillie Geiger of Ft. Wayne, Indiana, Elijah Geiger of Bradenton, Florida, Xavier Geiger of Ft. Wayne, and J.J. and Aden Cudney of Missouri. He is also survived by his brothers, James Penninger of Florida, Leland Stanley, Jr. of Elkhart, Theodore J. Penninger of Yuma, Arizona, and Steven Penninger of Spring Valley, California; his sister Christina Penninger, also of Spring Valley, California; his stepfather Leland Stanley, Sr of Elkhart; his faithful dogs, Precious and Spot Alan; and a wide circle of extended family and lifelong friends, including his closest companions, Mike Goldsberry of South Bend and Sherry Schreiber of Wyatt. Finally, it should be mentioned that the family is additionally blessed with a great granddaughter who is on the way!!!

Scott worked hard all his life, whether on the pour-off crew and maintenance team at the old Elkhart Foundry or as a bouncer at local establishments such as "The Zoo" and "Half-Time Sports Lounge." His tall frame, wide grin, and warm personality earned him the nickname "Big Scott." He was quick to laugh, quick to forgive, and always the kind of man you wanted on your side.

While Scott was proud of his work, his greatest pride came from being a father. Raising Chelsea as a single dad, he poured his whole heart into her upbringing—teaching her to play pool, filling her childhood with humor, and grounding her with strong values and unconditional love. His goofiness and endless sense of humor became trademarks that brought joy to everyone around him. He had a way of making people laugh until they cried, and his lighthearted outlook on life reminded others never to take things too seriously.

When he wasn't working or spending time with family, Scott could usually be found off-road, knee-deep in mud, or under the hood of a truck. He had a passion for mud bogging and belonged to several informal off-road groups, where he was happiest modifying old vehicles to see just how much punishment they could take down a muddy trail. For Scott, mudding wasn't just a pastime, it was an adventure, a challenge, and a way to connect with his friends while living life to the fullest.

Scott was also a deeply spiritual man who lived by his Christian beliefs. He was understanding, patient, and never judged others by where they were in life. People often came to him for long, heartfelt talks, and he listened with compassion, offering advice when asked and encouragement always. His kindness and tolerance made him everyone's "older brother," a steady presence whose loyalty could be counted on.

Above all, Scott loved his family. He cherished his grandchildren, who lit up his world, and his daughter, who was his rock. He was wild, adventurous, and strong, yet also sensitive, tender-hearted, and deeply faithful. His legacy lives on in the laughter he created, the friendships he built, and the countless lives he touched.

In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place. A gathering of family and friends will be held at Billings Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Elkhart on Friday, August 29, 2025, from 6 to 7 pm. A more casual and "Scott-style" celebration of life will take place at a later date, where stories, laughter, and memories will be shared in true Big Scott fashion.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Elkhart Area Career Center, a cause close to Scott's heart.