Obituary of Carol Joan Penner

Penner, Carol Joan - It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our sister Carol Joan Penner on Sunday, January 31, 2021. Carol is predeceased by her parents Ernie and Betty Penner. Following Dad’s passing 12 years ago, Carol was Mom’s constant companion and aid as Mom’s memory slowly faded, until Mom’s passing 2 weeks ago. Carol is survived by her siblings Elizabeth (Steve Harnum), Susan (Bill Friesen), John (Dawn Galloway), Jim, and Sandy (John Rempel). She also leaves 17 nieces and nephews: Ian and Alyssa, Geoff and Phoebe, Ryan and Vanessa, Rachel and Eric, Laura and Steve, Philip, Brian, Emily and Julian, Courtney, Jared, and Natalie; and 10 great-nieces and nephews: Austin, Calvin, Alex, Katherine, Victoria, Lucas, Violet, Asher, Graham, and George.

Born on October 9, 1963, the youngest of Ernie and Betty Penner’s 6 kids, Carol quickly found her own voice and raised it in joy, laughter, and song throughout her life. Music was never far from Carol’s heart. She was active in school choirs throughout elementary and high school as well as in the choirs at church her entire life.

Carol was an active member of the St. Catharines United Mennonite Church. She participated in every aspect of church life. As an adult she took a leadership role in the activities that had shaped her own faith; teaching Sunday School and Girl’s Club, and singing in the choir. She was active on committees and church council. Renowned for her organization and commitment, she never backed down from a challenge. She took her skills to the wider church community serving on committees with the Mennonite Church of Eastern Canada. Her sense of humour even under great pressure was always welcome.

These same abilities were evident in her work life. In administrative roles her employers relied on her to get things done. While she worked tirelessly shepherding Phantom Vacuum and Alcan through their toughest times, it was her work at Brock University in the Department of Child and Youth Studies which she loved the most. Done too soon, she is leaving behind many wonderful colleagues and friends there.

Carol’s greatest role in life was as a great aunt, both in title and action. Her nephews and nieces were a constant joy to her and they knew that when she took them on a special outing there was nobody more important than they were at that moment. She was a place of safety, fun, and support no matter what befell them.

Carol will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her. 

If you wish, memorial donations would be appreciated to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada. 

A memorial service will be live-streamed from Tallman Funeral Homes on Saturday, February 6 at 2 PM. To view the livestream, follow this link Tallman Funeral Home Facebook Page