Penny, as she was called by everyone, graduated from Trinity University in 1962 with a degree in History, after which she taught English and creative writing at San Antonio ISD from 1962 to 1970, and at Alamo Heights ISD from 1970 to 1974. She then married the love of her life, Neville, in 1974 and afterward moved to his hometown of Columbus.

After moving to Columbus, Penny began to explore her love of cooking by attending cooking classes in Manhattan from Annemarie Huste, who most famously worked as a private chef for Jackie Kennedy. Penny would also attend cooking classes overseas in France.

She soon applied her culinary talents into a new restaurant, Of The Day, which was open from 1992 until its closing in 2002. A charming cafe on the town square, Of The Day featured a daily rotation of specials and dishes crafted with love and care. Her cafe became a mainstay for both locals and visitors from across the state and was staffed by family members and friends who became family working lunches, dinners, and catering special events.

Outside of cooking, Penny also loved animals, particularly cats and dogs. Besides the cats she had at home, she also provided care for countless strays with food, medicine, and a welcoming home. No matter how many cats made their way in and out of her home, she provided them with love and a unique name that she never forgot. Along with her cats, she especially loved her dogs which she had throughout the years: Polly, Gizmo, and Juju.

Above all else, she will be remembered by her family and many friends in the community as someone who was kind and thoughtful and showed her love and affection with gifts for everyone she met. Penny was preceded in death by her parents Milan and Josephine Lakich, husband Wm. Neville Miekow, brother Milan Anthony Lakich, and sister-inlaw Linda Lakich.

She is survived by her brother John Lakich, nephews Matthew and Ryan, sister-in-law Gerlinde Lakich, and nephews Christopher and Anthony.

Penny was laid to rest next to her father and mother in a private service at Mission Burial Park South in San Antonio.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, January 23, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Henneke Funeral Home in Columbus.

In honor of Penny’s memory, donations can be made to Trinity University, One Trinity Place #49, San Antonio, TX 78212 or to the animal rescue charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be given at www.hennekefuneralhome. com.