David “Penny” Pendleton

October 18th, 2025

Originally, when I moved to Long Grove at the age of 12 I was not excited. I was familiar with everything at “home”. Granted, it was only 8 minutes away.

Anyways, my Dad quickly became close with Dave, and my brother Billy quickly became close with Cole. While I didn’t have a Pendleton my age, I grew close to Cole, Evan, Casey, Eileen and Dave. There was something about the family that felt like home.

In the last handful of years, I became extremely close with Dave in an “adult” way. We spoke about life, work, sports, and obviously I busted his balls with jokes all day long. He would fake laugh at most of my jokes as if they were the funniest thing he has ever heard. Now of course I knew that most of the jokes sucked, but when he MADE A NOISE, damnit I knew I got him. He really thought I was funny, sometimes.

I was lucky enough to spend tens or twenties of holidays with him and the rest of the Pendleton’s. We would sit in their house in Arizona, watch the ball games and well, of course have a drink. But none of that was relevant. It was always about who we were with. I think the reason my Dad and Dave became best friends was because they shared the same values. Our families shared the same values. Sure, the trips and the Christmas dinners and New Years Eve parties were filled with great food, great sports on the TV, great drinks, great laughs and great games that we played. But it was never about any of that. It was always about the company. I would rather be in the middle of the woods naked and afraid with the Pendleton’s, than in the south of France on some yacht without them.

The thing that I loved so much about Dave was the comfort he brought within his presence. I truly felt safe around him. We had this running joke that whenever I would see him (which was very often) I would call him Dad and he would call me Son. When I saw him at the course I’d say, “hey Dad, did you kick Danny’s (my actual Dad) ass today?” He would say something like “damn right I did, dinner is on me.” I admired the friendship my Dad and Penny shared and will continue to do so. It was/is a beautiful thing and was/is truly a sight to see, and everyone knew it. They were 55 year old men, living life together like they were in their 20’s (responsibly, kind of). It is truly sad to see Dave go, because they would’ve continued to do that for the rest of time. And sure, they loved golf, sports, having a drink, and talking about us kids behind our backs… but it was always deeper than that. AND, if I went to go meet my Dad at dinner, Dave was there. If I went to go grab a drink with my Dad, Dave was there. If I wanted to go watch my Dad play some golf, well obviously Dave was there. If I called my Dad and he didn’t pick up by the fourth ring, Dave’s number was already typed out in my phone.

A tragic loss to say the least, but damn, Penny lived a phenomenal life. I feel unbelievably grateful to have known and loved him. Rest easy, Penny.

~Eli Fishbein
~Close Friend, Long Grove, IL

October 16th, 2025

So much positive has already been seid about Dave; I want to fully agree with all of that. I was privileged to have Dave as my boss, to grow through him and to have the support needed, especially in difficult times.. Dave was a manager and a friend. I’m very sad that you had to leave so early. My deepest condulences go out to his family and friends. Karl Colleague@MDLZ Austria

~Karl Bloch
~Colleague, Austria

October 14th, 2025

Penny was my best friend’s father, my father’s best friend, and one of my best friends. I moved to Long Grove with my family in 2012. As a 7-year-old without many friends at this new school, the Pendletons welcomed my family and I with open arms. On my first day at this new school, I walked over to Cole’s bus stop because I didn’t want to get on alone. As they say, the rest is history. From ages 12 – 20, the Pendletons’ house was my house. I would walk over from my house and open and close the garage myself. Dave and Eileen never missed the chance to smile and say hello. Penny was truly a special guy. The more I think about him, the more I realize that he was an extremely steady man in all aspects of life. It really says something about a person when their demeanor rarely changes, and that’s something I always looked up to Dave for. We all know he was a very successful man, yet he never made it show. I’ll always be grateful to have grown up with him as a part of my life. He wasn’t just my best friend’s dad – he was family. His legacy isn’t just in his achievements, but in the way he made people feel. And I’ll carry that with me for the rest of my life. I’m confident in the fact that Penny will never die, as he will live on through his 3 children that he brought up so well. Never forgotten.

~Billy Fishbein
~Close Family Friend, Long Grove, IL

October 13th, 2025

I was a member at Royal Melbourne CC with Dave before he left us to go to Twin. Just before Corvid, 7 members and our golf pro, Zach, had the privilege of going to Ireland and played 9 rounds in 7 days. Our group started in Shamon, went down the west coast, playing Ballybunion, Tralee, Lehinch, Waterville, crossed the country to play Old head, The European Club and then finished out in =Dublin playing Port Marnick. We all had a blast and Dave smiled from cheek to Cheek. It was a privileges to know Dave and my thoughts and prayers go out to all his family and friends. I know Dave wanted to retire and play more golf and am glad to see he had a few years to do that and is now playing daily on the most magnificent golf course in the universe.

~Mark Evans
~Friend, Northbrook, Illinois

October 13th, 2025

I first met Dave when he was newly hired at Philip Morris. Little did I know then that we would go on to work closely together for more than twenty years. From the very beginning, Dave was a friend first and a colleague second. That’s just who he was — genuine, kind, and simply a pleasure to be around.

Dave always believed in fun first and business second, but that never took away from his seriousness as a leader. He was an outstanding professional — respected by everyone, able to make tough decisions while maintaining a light and positive outlook and always putting the team first.

He absolutely adored his family. You could see it the moment he spoke about Eileen and the kids. The way his eyes lit up said everything about the love he had for them.

On the golf course, Dave had what we liked to call an “inflated handicap.” It wasn’t because he wasn’t honest — quite the opposite. He just always rose to the occasion, saving his best for when it mattered most. That was true not only in golf, but also in business.

Dave was the same person at work and at play: fun, unpretentious, witty, and a truly great friend. I feel incredibly fortunate to have worked with him, played alongside him, and called him my friend. To me, Dave will always be my definition of a “great guy.”

Gary Conte

~gary conte
~Friend and Business Collegue, Clarendon Hls, Illinois

October 13th, 2025

Deeply saddened to hear of Dave’s passing. I had the privilege of working with Dave at Kraft / Mondelez. For many years he mentored me and many things he shared still resonate with me. What I valued the most about Dave was his honesty. I have never seen him shy away from speaking the truth. While I haven’t met his family, he often shared stories of their road trips and his passion for golf. He will be missed by all. Rest in peace Dave. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.

~Pooja Gupta Bhagat
~Member of Dave’s Team, Mumbai

October 12th, 2025

I remember first meeting Penny, he was so nice and such a great person. It was a warm sunny morning and he asked me what my name was as a golf caddy and from there he always made up a name for me. Whether it was “Big Al”, or “Allan”, or “Al” he always had a smile on his face and was ready to have a great day with him awesome attitude. He always made my day better when I saw him even if I wasn’t working for him. He was a great golfer and an even greater person. He taught me so much in life and I can’t believe he was taken so early in this life. He has a beautiful soul and will forever be deeply remembered in my heart as one of the greatest golfers and mentors I ever had. He always would ask me how my day was without even thinking about anything around him. I would always reply with “great” because he really made that difference in my day. Whether it be his great golf game or his beautiful attitude he always managed to have a great time and a very fun moment with everyone. I really miss him and I deeply mourn for his family and I can’t believe he’s in a better place now. And for that matter I will always miss you Penny. Thank you for every lesson you taught me and every single moment we shared together, I really miss you and I won’t forget the beautiful times we had together. Thank you, Allan.

~Allan
~Golf Caddy, Long Grove, Illinois

October 11th, 2025

I was so sorry to hear about Dave’s passing. Even though it’s been many years since we last saw each other, I have such great memories of our time growing up together. He was a wonderful person, and I’ve always had a lot of respect and fondness for him. My thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time.

~Helmut Bisl
~FRIEND, Port Jervis, NY

October 11th, 2025

It was my privilege to work with Dave on many HR projects and later as his HR Business Partner when I moved to the US. From the very beginning, Dave showed immense patience and generosity—always making time to help me navigate the complexities of the US way of doing things.

He brought warmth, humour, and kindness to every interaction, and he was always eager to do the right thing for the people in his team. Dave was a steady and supportive presence, and his integrity and compassion left a lasting impression on everyone who had the chance to work with him.

My heartfelt thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time. He will be greatly missed.

~Julie O’Donoghue
~Work colleague, UK (formerly US)

October 11th, 2025

Eileen, Casey and Family- our deepest condolences to all of you. I remember how wonderful Dave was to me on the girls senior trip to Mexico. He always had a smile on his face. Thinking of you all and holding you all in our hearts and prayers.

Leesa and Todd Drazner

~Leesa Drazner
~, IL

October 11th, 2025

Dave was always fun, respected and great to be around.
Our Port Jervis High School group of friends was such a close one, and back then we thought those bonds would last forever. Somehow life pulled us in different directions, and I lost contact with him. But I’ll always hold onto the memories of those great times together and of his friendly, outgoing personality. Rest easy, my friend — you are missed.

~Helmut Bisl
~FRIEND, Port Jervis, NY

October 11th, 2025

For almost ten years, Dave was a great leader and also a friend. Through good and challenging times, Dave believed in me, supported me and contributed significantly to my growth and development – always leading with kindness and care.

I will always remember the countless conversations, the valuable advice, the serene approach to the biggest of challenges. He always found a way to share his wisdom and help. And I was blessed with all that.

I have an immense gratitude for him and for the time we spent together.

Thank you very much, Dave!

~Frederico Gagliardi
~Colleague at Kraft/Mondelez, Brazil

October 10th, 2025

John, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your brother. The obituary told a beautiful story of his life and kindness. My thoughts are with you and Maryanne during this difficult time. All my love to you and your family. Respectfully, Nancy Antol-Sartori

~Nancy Antol-Sartori
~College and lifetime friend, West Tisbury, MA

October 10th, 2025

I feels so fortunate to have worked with Dave for 5 years whilst at Mondelez. He was such a kind person and highly respected leader.
Sending thoughts and condolences to his family at this terribly sad time.

Julia

~Julia Markell
~Colleague at Mondelēz, London

October 10th, 2025

Sharing a photo with Dave from a Kraft reunion. He was a deeply respected leader, admired by his team and community. I’ll always remember his smile and the way he made time to give back to others. Early in my career, Dave took a chance on me and opened doors I’ll always be grateful for. Honored to have known him and been part of his team. My thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.

~Delilah Kukla (Kutschma)
~Former Colleague at Kraft Foods International, Lake Geneva, WI

October 10th, 2025

Dave was a wonderful leader and manager. He protected his team. He made big decisions with speed powered by intellect and compassion. He fostered inclusion long before global inclusion was popular. He likely saw the global workplace earlier than others. He recognized and rewarded talent. I learned a lot from Dave and carried it forward. I have many specific memories that warm my heart whenever I think of Dave. I’ll keep those as my own. I am very sad his life ended far too young and pray his family will progress through grief and carry forward the best elements of Dave tucked away in their hearts and memories for ever. In that way I believe Dave lives on in them.

~Patti Boggi-Gibbons
~Colleague Kraft/MDLZ, Northfield/Deerfield IL US

October 10th, 2025

I was truly blessed to work for and alongside Dave for nearly two decades at MDLZ. Throughout that time, he believed in me and supported me at pivotal moments in both my career and my life.

I will always remember his warm smile and the way he began every conversation by genuinely checking in on the person in front of him. He had a remarkable ability to navigate the world with grace while guiding his team through challenges, aspirations, and setbacks.

Dave’s approachability and his joy in being with the team, wherever in the world we happened to be, were legendary. Whether it was bashing through dunes, playing a round of golf, or sharing a thoughtful conversation over dinner, Dave was always at the heart of it.

Over the years, he touched and transformed countless careers and lives. I remain deeply grateful for all I learned from him and strive to carry forward the same humanity and generosity he embodied.

My thoughts and prayers are with Dave’s wonderful family. Though I only had the chance to meet Eileen in person, I often heard stories of the many achievements and moments that made him so proud.

Dave, you are profoundly missed. Your spirit, kindness, and impact live on in all of us.

~Rupert Slezak
~Colleague @ MDLZ, Austria

October 10th, 2025

Dave was a childhood friend (middle/high school) in Port Jervis. He was always smart, kind, and had an centeredness of wisdom and calm beyond his years even then. I’m not surprised to see what a tremendous human he grew to be from all the kind comments here. I am so very sorry for your loss – he is gone from our earthly side way too soon. May his memory always be a blessing. Wishing all who loved him peace during this difficult transition.

~Missy Gluckmann
~friend,

October 10th, 2025

My heartfelt condolences to you and your family during this difficult time. Please know that I am here for you if you need support.

~Samantha Guerra
~Evan’s Colleague, Cincinnati, OH

October 10th, 2025

Dave was a great Leader, but more than that a very respectiful and patient person. He was my mentor for almost two years and during that period he was always very candor, wise but also a great advisor /teacher with a very high level of emphaty. But What I Will keep the most are our conversations about his memories related to Chicago Bulls history while I was watching the Jordan’s series (the Last Dance). And also his adventurous Car road trips with his dog to Arizona!!! I was deeply saddened to hear about your loss. Please accept my deepest condolences Leandro

~Leandro Magalhães
~Rewards Brazil (Mondelez team member), Curitiba, Brazil

October 10th, 2025

My overwhelming memory of Dave is that he was a kind, warm-hearted man who believed in me and gave me my ‘big break’ after Kraft bought Cadbury. As my direct manager, he gave me freedom to operate with wise guidance available when needed. I will be forever appreciative of his impact on my career and, indirectly, my family.

~Dave Nelson
~Mondelez colleague, Birmingham

October 10th, 2025

I was lucky to meet Dave in 2003 and work under his leadership for five transformative years at Kraft/Mondelez. Dave was more than a boss — he was a mentor, a compassionate friend, and a true gentleman whose warmth and guidance left an indelible mark on my life. His trademark leadership style — a youthful smile with an assertive wisdom — inspired so many of us around him. Though we hadn’t connected in many years, the memories of his support during challenging times, the celebration events together and the vibrant team he built remain vivid among my most cherished. To Dave’s family and friends, my deepest condolences; words fall short of capturing this loss. To Dave, my heartfelt gratitude for shaping me in ways you may never have realized. “Some people come into our lives and quietly go. Others stay awhile, leave footprints on our hearts, and we are never, ever the same”. (Flavia Weedn)

~Tania Reis
~Former colleague, Kraft/Mondelez, São Paulo / Brazil

October 10th, 2025

I have known Dave since I was one year old when my parents and I moved to Chicago. I always saw him as a father figure, and he always treated me as one of his children with Casey, Evan, and Cole. I will forever cherish our family trips, such as going to Aruba, and he was always so easy going. Anytime I would look at him, he would have the biggest smile. As I grew up, Dave would always be so interested in what I am studying at college and now law school, and would finish our conversation with the same sentence: “Jesse, I am so proud of you.” Hearing those words from a father figure of mine, who was normally soft spoken, would make me feel so good about myself. I will always also cherish our Giants conversations with Cole and Evan, as I enjoyed hearing his anger about the Giants. He never failed to make me laugh. Finally, a staple of my growth, from years ~2003 – 2016, New Years Eve at the Pendletons was special. Dave was always interested in the games we were playing (maybe the parents were just boring him). He truly felt like a second father or an uncle to me since I can ever remember. The world will not be the same without him. I love Dave and the Pendletons so much, sending my love and wishes from far.

~Jesse Stein
~Close Family Friend, Buffalo Grove, IL

October 10th, 2025

I worked with Dave at Mondelez and he was an amazing leader – compassionate with people at the heart of the discussion, full of integrity and caring. He taught many of us how one could lead with the heart and mind.
He will be missed!

~Jennifer Ah Whaye
~Colleague,

October 10th, 2025

Please see our farewell pic with Dave – From Mondelez

~Keith Mendez
~Ex Colleague from Mondelez, Zurich, Switzerland

October 10th, 2025

Dave and I met the first time more than 30 years ago – as we both attended a company sponsored leadership meeting in NYC. Who would have thought that our paths will continue to cross over decades and end in the last years of our time at MDLZ being on the same team, seeing each other almost daily. The news of Dave’s passing is devastating and brought back many memories. As I shared the sad news across our MDLZ/Kraft/Philip Morris family it became clear how much Dave was liked, appreciated and how many lives he has touched.
Dave was never looking for the spotlight, I knew that he always had my back, cared deeply about his team and was able to balance what was right for the individual and the company. Whatever stress or workload we faced (and there were crazy times) – Dave was always calm, approachable and focused to get the impossible over the finish line. Everybody trusted Dave to do the right thing, he was the ultimate professional. He is gone way too early and I am just glad that I can cherish many memories.
RIP – Sandra Stenico, Austria

~STENICO SANDRA
~Colleague @ MDLZ, Austria

October 10th, 2025

Sending love and giant hugs to you all. You are in our prayers and hearts. We love you! – Norman, Phyllis, Andrea, Sean, Halle

~Andrea Halpern
~Extended family, Boca Raton, Fl

October 10th, 2025

I became very good friends with Dave my senior year in Port Jervis High School. The stories and great memories are endless. We are all in shock to hear of his passing. Eileen and family we are so sorry for your loss and you’re in our thoughts and prayers.

~Ken McInerney
~Friend, New Ashford , Massachusetts

October 10th, 2025

I will always remember Dave as a zen leader, calm, kind, and full of quiet wisdom. I’m deeply grateful for the trust he placed in me and for the many opportunities he opened along the way. I missed him deeply after his retirement; it simply wasn’t the same without his steady presence and gentle guidance. Working with him was a true gift, and his spirit continues to inspire me.

~Claudia Hernandez
~Former colleague at MDLZ, Bogota, Colombia

October 9th, 2025

A wonderful superior. Always fair, considerate, understanding and a pleasure to work for and with.

~Anita Noel
~Colleague, Dandridge, TN

October 9th, 2025

I was fortunate enough to meet Penny at Silverleaf in Scottsdale, AZ. I would caddy for Penny often and he always made me feel like I was playing in the group opposed to working for the group. Penny did not have bad days and made everyone around him feel good. I know I speak for everyone here in Scottsdale when I say that he will be missed and never forgotten!

~Marty Sanchez
~Friend, Phoenix, AZ

October 9th, 2025

I met David almost 30 years ago. He proved to be, not only a gifted business leader, but also a close confidante and friend over the years. Every time we would meet, it was always the same. A smile, a handshake, a brief hug… and then he would ask, “How are you doing?” (And he really meant it!).
He spoke often of Eileen and his children and how proud he was of all of the things they had done and accomplished.

Over the past two days, members of the Kraft/Mondelez extended family from around the world have been grieving, but also sharing wonderful memories and stories about David via phone calls, texts and emails with each other.

Clearly, our colleague and friend, David ,will be missed, but the memories of the times we shared together will remain forever.

~Tom Boyd
~Friend and Colleague, Augusta, Michigan

October 9th, 2025

I had the pleasure of working with Dave for approximately 12 years prior to my retirement in 2008. Dave was a smart and helpful professional and, most importantly, a kind and caring person – a truly wonderful teammate. My prayers and deepest sympathies go out to Dave’s family and many friends.

~Tom Thurman
~Colleague, Fish Creek, Wisconsin

October 9th, 2025

I first met Penny about four years ago at Silverleaf, where I use to have the pleasure of caddying for him. Over the years, we spent countless rounds together, probably close to a hundred even through sunshine, rain, and everything in between. Every round with Penny, his friends, and his family was something I genuinely looked forward to.

Even after moving on from Silverleaf to pursue a different career, I always made it a point to come back each year for the member-member to caddie for him. It was something I truly cherished. From shared laughs and friendly competition to those spontaneous “emergency nines” where we would play scotch his favorite game, Penny made every day on the course memorable.

He was someone whose kindness, humor, and warmth made a lasting impression on everyone around him. Penny will be deeply missed. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family and friends.

~Ian Hagener
~Friend, Scottsdale

October 9th, 2025

David came to work for us following his retirement at Mondelez, as one of our Executive Advisors. Dave was the consummate professional, easy to work with and compassionate with his clients who were in career transitions. Our team is deeply saddened by his passing, and our prayers and best wishes go out to his family and friends. May they find peace in David’s life well-lived.

~John Wirkes
~Colleague at Challenger, Gray & Christmas, Denver, CO