John Penfield

Dr. John F. Penfield, 57, of Vestal, NY, passed away on August 28th, 2025. John was

born on September 18, 1967.

John is survived by his beloved daughters, Mary Louise, Cecelia, and Julia, who were

the light of his life. He is also survived by his siblings, Lorrie Penfield (Elmira, NY), Bill

Penfield (Culebra, PR), Lisa Penfield (Culebra, PR), and Tammy Penfield (Ithaca,

NY), along with many cherished nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his

parents, Robert and Alice Penfield, and two brothers, Bob and Tim.

John held lifelong friendships especially close to his heart. He treasured the bond he

shared with Tom Goleibewski (Bethony and their children Hudson and Hattie) and

with Paul Passionino (Kim and their children Ava, David, and Kaden). To John, friends

were like family, and the memories made together will carry on in their hearts.

A proud graduate of Vestal High School, John went on to attend Florida State

University, where his enduring love of Seminole football began. He continued his

studies at NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine and built a distinguished career in

emergency medicine, saving countless lives across New York State during his 30+

years of service.

Beyond medicine, John found his greatest joy outdoors. He loved springtime fishing at

the family cabin in Otter Lake, Quebec, and passed on his skills and spirit to many

young people-teaching them how to bait a line, hitch a trailer, and, with his

trademark grin, to "put some dirt on it." He believed in keeping life simple: running

through the SUNY Binghamton Nature Preserve, building stone walls in the backyard,

or finding humor in everyday moments. His wit, generosity, and teaching spirit left an

imprint on everyone who knew him.

John was a dimensional and curious person-always thinking, always tinkering,

always laughing through challenges. His resilience and humor lifted those around him,

and he will be profoundly missed by family, friends, colleagues, and all who were

lucky to know him.

Please contact family and friends for details regarding the Celebration of Life. In lieu of

flowers, donations may be made to Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), a cause close to

John's heart.

He will be deeply missed.