Jake Penwell
Owner & Funeral Director
Hi, I’m Jake! I’ve lived in Shelby my entire life, and I can honestly say there’s no place I’d rather call home. This community isn’t just where I grew up — it’s where my roots are, where my family lives, and where I’ve been blessed to build a life doing work that truly means something to me. I take a lot of pride in being part of Shelby, and even more in being able to serve the people who make this town what it is.
My journey into funeral service started when I was 14. What began as a simple job quickly turned into something that shaped who I am. Over time, I realized how meaningful it is to walk alongside families in moments of grief — to offer steady guidance, a listening ear, and a sense of comfort. That’s what drew me in, and it’s what keeps me grounded in this work every day.
After graduating from Shelby High School, I studied business at Xavier University and went on to earn my degree from the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science. In 2018, I became the owner of what is now Penwell Funeral Home — a responsibility I carry with deep respect, and a continuation of the legacy built by my mentors, Bob and Catherine Turner.
Outside of work, I stay actively involved in the community. A longtime board member of the Community Improvement Corporation of Shelby (CIC), I have served as its president for the last five years. Our CIC’s work toward economic growth, pride of place, and continual improvement is one of the proudest things I have been able to be a part of. Additionally, I am a board member of the Richland Community Development Group (RCDG), which is the county’s economic development leader. I currently serve as the board chair and as a board member of the Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development. A longtime member of Shelby Rotary Club, I am a past president and currently serve on their board. I’m also a longtime volunteer with Shelby Bicycle Days, and we coordinate the parade each year—a special tradition for us. These roles give me the opportunity to work alongside great people who are dedicated to making our communities a better place.
At home, I’m lucky to share life with my wife, Lauren — also a licensed funeral director — and our two daughters, Renner Marie and Ilo June. I love them, our time and adventures together, and watching our girls grow and learn. My parents, Jon and Marty (Imhoff) Penwell, have been incredibly supportive throughout my life and career. I’m grateful for their love and guidance. We’re also blessed with a wonderful extended family, including my brother and sister-in-law, Colton and Maddie Penwell, Lauren’s entire family — my in-laws — as well as our nieces and nephews. Family and friends mean everything to us, and we make it a priority to spend as much time with others as we can.
Some of my favorite moments are spent surrounded by family and close friends. Those relationships are everything to me.
I’ve always said that when my time comes, I hope my obituary can read: “His favorite passion and hobby was collecting friends.” Because at the end of the day, that’s what I value most — connection, kindness, and the simple joy of knowing and being known.
Brooke Burkhalter
Hi, I’m Brooke Burkhalter, and I’m truly blessed to call Shelby, Ohio, my lifelong home.
My roots here run deep—this community has shaped every part of who I am. I was raised by my loving parents, Mike and Jill Potter, surrounded by my siblings, and today, our growing families continue to live, serve, and thrive here.
After graduating from Shelby High School in 1992, I followed a calling into healthcare. I began my nursing education at Mansfield General School of Nursing, then went on to earn my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Phoenix and a master’s degree in healthcare administration from Capella University. For many years, I cared for patients and their families with compassion and dedication—work that taught me so much about strength, grace, and the human spirit. These skills remain central to my life’s work.
In August of 2023, I started helping out at Penwell Funeral Home, simply stepping in where I could. What I didn’t expect was how deeply that experience would touch my heart. By February 2024, I knew I was being called to serve in a new way—by walking beside families during some of their hardest moments, offering comfort, guidance, and care.
I’m now in my final semester at John A. Gupton College, working toward becoming a licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer. This new chapter in my life has been one of purpose and personal growth, and I feel honored every day to walk this path.
At the center of everything I do is my family. I’m married to my best friend, Randy Burkhalter, and together we’ve built a life filled with love, laughter, and faith. We have four wonderful children: Brianna (Mitch) Noel, Brayden (Lizzy) Burkhalter, Brevyn Burkhalter, and Brycen Burkhalter. One of the greatest blessings in my life is being Gigi to my sweet grandson, Rowan.
My siblings and their families, along with my in-law families, all live nearby—and I’m so thankful for the closeness we share. Our family’s love for each other and for this community runs deep, and we’re proud to be a part of Shelby’s story. I’m also incredibly grateful to have many of my in-law families close by, adding even more love, support, and connection to our lives. Shelby isn’t just where I’m from—it’s where my heart is.
Outside of work and school, I find joy in the little things: time with family, community events, faith-filled moments, and simply being there for the people I love. I enjoy giving back to my community and living out the values that guide me—faith, family, kindness, and service. Whether I’m caring for patients, comforting grieving families, or simply lending a listening ear, I strive to meet each moment with heart and purpose. I believe that compassion is the foundation of true care, a philosophy that continues to shape my work, my relationships, and my commitment to those I serve.
Lauren Penwell
Funeral Director
Hi, I’m Lauren Penwell — a licensed funeral director and embalmer, born and raised in Canal Winchester, Ohio. I knew early on that this was the path for me. Growing up, I watched my grandpa serve families with compassion, dignity, and care. His work made a lasting impression and inspired me to follow in his footsteps.
After earning my bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Capital University, I went on to study at the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science — where I also met my husband, Jake! After graduation, I had the privilege of working at my grandpa’s funeral homes, Dwayne R. Spence Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canal Winchester and Pickerington until 2020.
That year, life brought some big and beautiful changes. I got married, moved to Shelby, Ohio, and started a new chapter both personally and professionally. I now work with OhioHealth in business development for the Employer Solutions team. While funeral service will always be close to my heart, I’m grateful to be doing meaningful work in a new way.
Upon moving to Shelby, I quickly fell in love with the people and the community. Jake and I also share a passion project — renovating our 1870s brick farmhouse, which we bought as a fixer-upper in 2019. Breathing new life into the old house and making it our home has been a labor of love and something we’re really proud of.
But without a doubt, my favorite role is being a mom. We have two beautiful daughters — Renner Marie and Ilo June — and they’re the center of our world. We love spending time together as a family, especially getting outside for walks. If you’re ever in Shelby during the warmer months, you’ll probably see the three Penwell girls (plus our dog, Charlotte) strolling up and down Main Street. I come from a big family, and staying connected with them is incredibly important to me.
We try to make trips down to Canal Winchester as often as we can. Friends and family are a huge part of who I am and the life Jake and I are building together.
Thanks so much for stopping by — I’m really glad you’re here.
Charlotte Penwell
Emotional Support Staff
Bow wow! Howl are you?! I’m Charlotte Rose Penwell, the official emotional support dog here at Penwell Funeral Home. I’m a sweet and gentle black Labradoodle, born on December 1, 2021, and I’ve been part of the Penwell family ever since I was old enough to lend a comforting paw.
My job is simple but important — offering love, warmth, and a quiet presence to anyone who needs it. Whether you’re visiting for a service, meeting with our staff, or just passing through, I’m here to help make things a little softer and a little less heavy.
You’ll usually find me greeting guests with a wagging tail, sitting patiently beside families, or snoozing in a cozy corner of the office. I like to bark to greet people at the door, but don’t worry — I’m just saying, “Hello!” I’m really good at knowing when someone could use a nuzzle or just a moment of peace with a furry friend.
Outside of work, I love going for walks, playing with my sisters Renner and Ilo, running in our yard, and, of course, treats! But my favorite thing of all is being here for you.
If you see me around, don’t be shy — come say hello. My mom and dad always say I’m the “fluffiest Penwell,” and I’m always ready to share some love.
Penwell Girls
Renner and Ilo Penwell are the youngest members of the Penwell family—and proud little sisters to Charlotte, the funeral home’s beloved dog. You’ll often find them visiting the funeral home, where they love spending time with family and chatting with guests. Growing up in this close-knit community, they’re already learning what it means to care for others with kindness and heart.
Part Time Employees
Dick Shaffer
Beth Kurtzman
