Michael Penz

Michael C. Penz, a longtime resident of the “Avenues” of Cheyenne, passed on Friday, September 5, 2025, at age 83.

Born in Minneapolis to Anna and Charles Penz,and raised in Indiana, Mr. Penz was graduated from Indiana University and received the M.A. degree in geology from the Colorado School of Mines. Following several years working in the oil and gas industry and mining, he advanced to the position of Hydrology Geologist for the State of Wyoming, a position he held until his retirement.

During the Vietnamese War, Mr. Penz served as a surveyor for the U. S. Army in Germany.

Mr. Penz was known for his passion for history and his collection of antique guns, especially muzzle loaders and Kentucky long rifles. Supporting this interest, he was a longtime member of the National Muzzle Loading Rifle Association, Contemporary Longrifle Association, The Kentucky Rifle Association, National Rifle Association, and the Sigma Xi Scientific Fraternity.

Mr. Penz is survived by his sisters, Barbara (Tim) Densborn, Buchanan, MI; and Suzanne Fattu, Evansville, IN; nephews and nieces, Cynthia (Larry) Blake, Mason,OH, Ali(Del) Doti, Carlsbad, CA, Ann-Jeannette (Rudy) Vasko, Kennett Square, PA, Michael (Khajista) Fattu, Austin, TX, and James C. Fattu, Austin, TX.; and grand nephews and grand nieces, Christian Vasko, Jenna Vasko, Ella Vasko, Bisma Fattu, Sarah Fattu, Ashraf Fattu, Eliot Doti, Oliver Doti, Lauren (Andrew) Kohler Johnson, and Zane Kohler.

Mike was loved and will be missed by friends, family and his loyal dog Curly Jack.