Obituary of Betty Penner

Betty Penner (Neufeld)

October 1, 1932 - January 14, 2021

Betty Penner of St. Catharines, ON passed away on Friday, January 15, 2021 at 88 years of age. Betty was predeceased by her husband Ernie Penner (2008) her sister Lena and brother Pete. She is survived by her sister Margie, brother Corny, her children Elizabeth (Steve Harnum), Susan (Bill Friesen), John (Dawn Galloway), Jim, Sandy (John Rempel), and Carol. She also leaves 17 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, she was 4 years old when the family moved to Leamington, Ontario. They later moved to Vineland Station and finally to St. Catharines where she spent most of her life. She met Ernie Penner at the St. Catharines United Mennonite Church, and they were married in 1953. Together they made a home and raised a family of 6 children in a way that makes us all nostalgic for our childhood days,

Throughout her life, Betty was deeply involved in the life of her church, both serving and taking leadership roles in the Sunday School program, Girl’s Club, the Home Mission Circle, singing in the choir, accompanying several choirs and congregational singing. An accomplished pianist and organist she not only provided music for services at the church since she was a teenager, Betty shared her musical gifts at other churches, senior’s homes, funerals and weddings whenever she was asked for over 60 years.

Her support of the work of the church extended far beyond the walls of the church, and she gave tirelessly to a variety of important ministries. Many people know her because of her foundational work and leadership of the Christian Benefit shops for many years. One of her fondest stories involved working with offenders performing community service at the shop. She said the judge told them, “You can go to jail or you can do what Betty Penner does.” She was a strong supporter of the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC), and when an F4 tornado devastated Barrie, she and her friends donned hard hats and work boots to assist in the clean-up. Betty was honoured at Roy Thomson Hall in Toronto with an Ontario Volunteer Service Award for her years of volunteer service.

She was the best Mom we could have asked for. Her baking skills were legendary; her laughter, smile and cheerfulness were boundless. Her kindness was exemplified by the kitchen table. No matter who would show up, or how many they were, there was always room for one more. She will be sorely missed by all who knew her.

Due to Covid-19 restrictions there will a private funeral service.

We know that she would appreciate donations to the Mennonite Central Committee (mcccanada.ca). Flowers are respectfully declined.

To view the livestream memorial service please follow this link - Tallman Funeral Homes Facebook Page