Ethel M. Pensak

Ethel M. Pensak, age 93, of Brookston, MN, passed away on Friday, August 29, 2025, at St. Luke's Hospital in Duluth, MN.

She was born on April 15, 1932, in Kettle River, MN, to Arnold and Lillian (Wiita) Kangas. Ethel grew up in Brookston, MN, where she shared a childhood friendship with her neighbor, James Pensak. After graduating from high school, James left to serve his country, and upon his return, their friendship blossomed into love. They were married soon after and went on to share nearly 68 wonderful years together, raising their two daughters. She was a stay-at-home mom at their farm in Alborn, MN, but had a busy schedule with the kids and all the animal chores on the farm, where they had chickens, dogs, cats, cows, horses, and many other critters. Ethel had a huge love for animals, especially her dog Buddy. She enjoyed grabbing a bite to eat with family and friends, a good soap opera, and never missed her weekly hair appointment.

Ethel is survived by her daughters, Brenda (Bruce) Johnson, and Julie Colbert; grandchildren, Brandon (Deanna) Johnson, Brayden Johnson, Winter Severson, Taylor Colbert, Trey (Aly) Colbert; great-grandchildren, Natalie, Caitlin, Emily, Landon, Berlin, and Kinley; great-great grandchildren, Anakin and Clementine and her caretaker and chosen family Hannah Noh.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, James Pensak; Siblings, Violet, Toivo, Tauno, and Kathleen; and son-in-law, Steven Colbert.

A Funeral Service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at the Hope Lutheran Church in Floodwood, MN. Visitation will be held an hour prior to the service. Pastor John Burgess will officiate the service.

Arrangements are with the Dougherty Funeral Home of Hibbing, MN.