Paul W. Pankop, 91, of Kendallville, Indiana, died Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at his residence.

He was born March 8, 1934, in Kendallville, Indiana, to Walter M. and Beatrice Irene (Hovarter) Pankop.

On July 19, 1953, in Burr Oak he married Mary J. McClanahan. She preceded him in death on November 25, 2018.

He honorably served in the U.S. Army from January, 1955 to December, 1956.

Mr. Pankop was a lifelong farmer, still residing on the family farm. He was a member of Beacon Baptist Church in Kendallville.

The important things in his life were faith, family, and fishing.

Surviving are four grandchildren, Kenny (Tiffany) Pankop, Jennifer (Paul) Kuchar, Pete (Jen) Pankop, and Phillip Pankop; seven great-grandchildren, Lilly Fields, Khloe Pankop, Zane Pankop, Austin Kuchar, Boston Kuchar, Hailey Pankop, and Emily Pankop; and a brother, Mark (Jeanne) Pankop.

He was also preceded in death by three sons, Paul F. Pankop, Philip Pankop, and Andrew Pankop; a granddaughter, Jessica Pankop; and two sisters, Rosellen Nellans and Phyllis Reeve.

A Celebration of Life service will be Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Beacon Baptist Church, 1511 Drake Road, Kendallville with the Rev. Ron Stratman officiating.

Burial will be at Christian Chapel Cemetery in Merriam at a later date.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the church.

Honor guard services will be provided by the Veterans Honor Guard.

Preferred memorials are to the American Heart Association, Cancer Society, or Beacon Baptist Church.

Young Family Funeral Home, Kendallville Chapel, 222 South State Street, Kendallville is assisting the family with arrangements.

Share memories and condolences at www.youngfamilyfuneralhome.com