Danville Community Grieves Loss of Penny Marie Nelk, 63, in Apparent Drowning Incident
A wave of sorrow has swept through the Danville community following the sudden and tragic passing of Penny Marie Nelk, a 63-year-old woman whose life ended in an apparent drowning incident earlier this week. Her death has left family, friends, and neighbors heartbroken, struggling to come to terms with the loss of a beloved woman known for her warmth, strength, and unwavering compassion.
According to preliminary reports from the Danville Police Department, first responders were called to the scene of a possible water-related emergency near a private property on the outskirts of Danville. When officers and emergency medical personnel arrived, they discovered Nelk unresponsive in the water. Despite their best efforts to revive her, she was tragically pronounced dead at the scene. An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident is ongoing, but authorities have stated there are currently no signs of foul play. An autopsy has been scheduled to confirm the cause of death.
For those who knew Penny, the news has been devastating. She was described by many as a cornerstone of her community—someone who brought light into the lives of others, whether through a kind word, a helping hand, or her vibrant spirit that touched every room she entered. Born and raised in Illinois, Penny spent much of her life giving to others, whether as a mother, a sister, a friend, or a neighbor.
“She was the kind of person who remembered your birthday, brought you soup when you were sick, and always knew just what to say,” said longtime friend and neighbor, Carol Jenkins. “This community has lost a beautiful soul.”
Nelk was also known for her love of nature and the outdoors, often spending her time gardening, birdwatching, or simply enjoying quiet moments near water. It was this love for peaceful natural settings that makes her passing even more tragic for those close to her.
“She always said being near water calmed her,” said her daughter in an emotional tribute. “It’s hard to understand that something she loved so much is where we lost her.”
In the wake of Penny’s passing, community members have begun to gather and show support for her family. A small memorial of flowers, candles, and handwritten notes has begun to grow near the site of the incident, a visual representation of the many lives she touched. Local churches and organizations have also offered grief counseling services and are planning a public vigil in the coming days.
Plans for a memorial service are currently underway, and the Nelk family has expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support and condolences they’ve received. “We are heartbroken but so thankful for the outpouring of love from everyone,” a family statement read. “Penny was a light in our lives, and though she is gone, her light will never be extinguished.”
As the Danville community continues to process this immense loss, Penny Marie Nelk will be remembered not just for how she died, but for how she lived—with kindness, grace, and an open heart that left a lasting imprint on all who knew her.
She is survived by her children, grandchildren, siblings, and a wide circle of friends who will carry her memory forward in love and remembrance.