Michael "Wolfe" Lee Penninger

Michael “Wolfe” Lee Penninger, 63, of Concord, passed away peacefully at his home on September 14, 2025. He was born on September 20, 1961, in Cabarrus County to the late Charles Michael Penninger and Carolyn Lee Burton Penninger.

Mike dedicated 30 years of his life to serving with Cabarrus EMS, where he was not only a respected colleague but also a beacon of kindness in the community. As an Eagle Scout, he embodied the values of leadership and service, nurturing a heart of gold that led him to support various charitable initiatives such as founding Operation North Pole, touching the lives of over 120 families last year helping families that were victims of the flood, and also passing out blankets to the homeless on Christmas Eve . Mike had a deep love for the Outer Banks and found joy in fishing there. His compassionate spirit and commitment to helping others will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Those left to cherish his memory, Anna Marie Thorpe; his cherished daughters, Michala and Maggie Penninger; his siblings, Beth Parham (Hank), Charles Penninger (Sharon), and Emily Cook (Jason); and numerous nieces and nephews who will forever hold his memory in their hearts.

A celebration of Mike’s life will be held on Saturday at 2:00 PM at Mt. Olivet UMC, with Rev. Alan Thompson officiating. Prior to the service, a visitation will take place from 12:00 to 2:00 PM at Mt. Olivet UMC.

Memorials may be made to Jami's Halo, 1150 Meadow Creek Rd. Locust, NC 28097.

Online condolences may be left at www.whitleysfuneralhome.com.