Theodore J. Penker III

Theodore Penker III, affectionately known as Theo, Ted, Duke, Teddy, and by some of this writer’s grandchildren as Uncle Ted, passed away at the age of 93 on October 22, 2024. Born on Friday the 13th, Ted was the cherished only son of Theodore and Ruth Penker. Though his immediate family was small, Ted’s presence was expansive, as he is survived by his many friends as well as his cousins Barb Squeri and John Penker and an extended adopted family who cherished him as their own: Penny & Bill Hummel Sr., Bill & Barbara Hummel Jr., John Hummel & Kathy Gates, Brandon & Katie Hummel, Lauren Hummel, and William (Will) Hummel III. To these family members, Ted was not just a relative, but an integral part of the Hummel clan, a connection he embraced despite no blood relation (he was a cousin by marriage to Bill Hummel Sr.).

Ted was a lifelong resident of Cincinnati, with the exception of a brief stint in Delaware for his father’s job. A proud alumnus of Elder High School, class of 1949, Ted also studied at the University of Cincinnati’s DAAP program. After his studies, he began his career at the family’s construction firm, Penker Co., and later moved on to Turner Construction. However, it was with HUD that Ted truly found his calling, working as an inspector and appraiser for many years. His dedication to his work was evident, and even at the age of 78, he continued his role at HUD, where his colleagues valued him deeply. Ted often remarked that inspecting buildings, climbing stairs, and staying active kept him in excellent shape throughout the years.

Beyond his career, Ted was an avid and passionate art collector, a hobby he pursued from a young age. His collection spanned ancient manuscripts to modern works by artists like Joan Miró and Roberto Matta. His talent and eye for art earned recognition, with pieces from his collection displayed at the Cincinnati Contemporary Arts Center and the Cincinnati Museum of Art. A critic once remarked that "Although still a young man, he could show many of his seniors a thing or two" about art collecting. Ted’s commitment to the arts extended to supporting local artists, founding the Friends of San Guiseppe, which organized exhibitions at the College of Mount St. Joseph. As a final gesture of his love for the arts, Ted bequeathed the bulk of his extensive collection to the Cincinnati Art Museum, ensuring that his legacy would continue to inspire future generations.

Ted's love of the arts was not confined to visual forms; he was a devoted patron of music and theater as well. Many a Saturday evening found him attending performances at the Cincinnati Symphony, the Opera, or one of the city’s many theaters. As a longtime resident of Price Hill, Ted especially enjoyed attending shows at the Incline Theater, just steps away from his home at Queens Tower. He was also a familiar face at the Primavista Restaurant, where he spent many evenings enjoying good food and even better company.

Ted’s warmth, humor, and generosity left an indelible mark on all who knew him. His legacy lives on not only through his contributions to the arts and his professional work but through the countless lives he touched along the way.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to St. Lawrence Catholic Church, Elder High School, or the Arts organization of your choice.