Obituary of Katharene Penner

It is with sadness that the family of Katharene (Kay) Penner announces her passing on Jan.18, 2022, in her 96th year.  She is predeceased by her parents, John and Agnes Penner, her sisters, Helen, Sophie, Mary, Agnes and her brothers, John and David.  She is survived by her sister Joanne and many nieces and nephews.

After being compelled to leave school after Grade 8, to work on the farm, she returned as an adult to complete high school, Mack School of Nursing and University of Toronto, Public Health Nursing.  She worked for the Department of Indian Affairs and then in the cities of London and Toronto as a Public Health Nurse.  She also volunteered with the Mennonite Central Committee and worked in Haiti for two years (1966-1968). 

Kay lived her faith and followed her Saviour all of her life.  She was a living example of a Christ-like life - giving herself for the benefit of others.  She was dearly loved by all of her nieces and nephews, who found in her a friend, confidante and encourager to become all that they could become.  Kay made it her mission to keep them informed of each others’ activities.  Always a listening ear, always a shoulder to cry on and always loving them fiercely.

Kay’s remains will be laid to rest on her mother’s grave and her life will be celebrated on May 1/22 - her birthday.  Oh what a party!

Donations in memory of our fabulous and wonderful Auntie Kay can be made to:

Grantham Mennonite Brethren Church (Benevolent Fund),

469 Grantham Ave.,

St. Catharines, ON. L2M 3J2

Or to an organization of your choice.