Penelope Ann Hommel

On October 7, 2025, Penelope Hommel died at her home on Lake Michigan in the Charlevoix area after a number of years of medical problems. 

Penny was a nationally recognized gerontologist with a major focus on the development of legal services for the elderly, as well as issues concerning the autonomy of life-related decision-making by all adults. Penny was a frequent speaker at national conferences, as well as having testified before Congressional committees on aging-related issues. Penny also provided training on aging issues in states all across this nation. Penny received her Bachelors degree from the University of Michigan with a major in French for which she also spent a year in France. She received a Masters degree in Sociology from the London School of Economics. She served for decades as the Director and then Co-Director, with her husband, of The Center for Social Gerontology, based in Ann Arbor. 

She is survived by her husband Jim Bergman and her sister Jacqueline Hartman, her brothers John Hommel, Michael Hommel, Mark Hommel, Ralph Hommel, as well as her step-sons Samuel Bergman, Andrew Bergman (wife Kim Corbette, and daughter Inara), and Benjamin Bergman. 

To say that Penny will be missed by hundreds of friends and family across this nation and in Canada is a vast understatement. She cared so deeply for so many, and the love and caring was reciprocated. The memories of Penny will remain forever with us and will sustain us. Thanks so much Penny.

Arrangements are in the care of the Charlevoix Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign her online guestbook www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.