Peter Henry Penner

He is survived by his loving wife Helen of 67 years; four children Sheila (Sean), Gary (Kim), Karen (Blake) and Gordon; granddaughter Kathrynn; sisters Agnus and Elsie; brother Art (Liz); as well as numerous other relative and friends. He will also be dearly missed by neighbours The Murry’s and The Henderson’s that became his extended family.

Peter was born in Fairholm, SK. He began his working career for his father at his John Deere dealership in Sanford, MB.

He later moved on to work for Maple Leaf Construction for 43 years.

Peter lived a very full life possessing many talents that he was very happy to share when needed.

In accordance with Peter’s wishes cremation has taken place.

A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, July 11, 2018 at 2:00 pm at Thomson “In the Park” Funeral Home, 1291 McGillivray Boulevard.

In lieu of flowers, should friends desire, donations in Peter’s memory may be made to the charity of their choice.

We would like to extend our thanks to the Winnipeg Fire and Paramedics Service, the caring nurses, doctors and staff at the HSC Emergency and Surgical ICU department.

A Beautiful Life

We have been recalling some of our treasured memories.

Peter was very dedicated to help out when needed at the family farm in Brandon, where we would catch up with many aunts, uncles, and cousins, as well as indulge in homemade fare.

The Smith family was very close; there was always an open invitation to Sunday dinners. Helen's brother Gordon, friend Ken Kunz and along with others were involved in stock car events. Gordon, Jean, Peter and Helen could spend hours together talking and laughing. There were many great get-togethers with the Chatfield’s, Kunz family and the Teeple’s, spending time in the neighbourhood as well as the Whiteshell cottage area. These friendships have developed into solid bonds over their lives.

During Peter's many years of employment with Maple Leaf Construction, Helen and Pete became close friends with Kathy and Bob Fitzpatrick, as well as their families. There were many Christmas parties and Jet games attended together. As their friendship was genuine they shared many home gatherings celebrating and heading out for country drives, including a lunch out before heading home.

Fortunate for us, Helen and Peter were able to enforce their bond while venturing into the most demanding dedication of parenthood.

In 1960, our father built our family home in Charleswood, eventually incorporating a skating rink for the entire neighbourhood to enjoy. A barn was built for the next venture consisting of several years dedicated to horse shows at home, the local Pony Club, as well as other areas in Manitoba and Ontario. This involved transporting some unwilling horses, after Peter displaying his patience and gentle persuasion, we would be on our way. These efforts were not left unrewarded, Sheila and Gary filled the house with many trophies and ribbons. During Christmas holidays we would share sleigh rides with the family down Charleswood Road singing Xmas Carols.

During these years the Svenningsen family entered our lives and became very dear to us. This is when Dad had developed a love for Danish food and Schnapps which led to singing and laughter. Those years of friendship are reflected to this day.

Peter and Gordon had some similar interests, being the creative gene and determination. The neighbours were involved in the replication of the Star Wars characters for our local “Charleswood In Motion Parade". First Place was awarded to our team, we were headed to participate in the "Red River Exhibition" where Gordon was proud to don a tuxedo to accept another First Place award at 11 years of age. What a fun time we had, which we cherish to this day.

As you can imagine, similar to most parents there were days of wondering what could take place at any moment.

Dad had the patience of Job, one of his daughters borrowed his car one afternoon to pick up a girlfriend. Unfortunately, the friend had not shut the passenger door completely which resulted in the door being caught on a snow bank and bent. The door was unable to close without the use of a rope, this was a dreaded drive home. Our father has always thought before he spoke, he reassured me that this door could be repaired, not to worry as this was only an accident.

Patience, understanding and wisdom came naturally for our father and we thank him for these fine qualities.

Helen and Peter embraced their 2 sons-in-law and daughter- in-law as well as sharing many good times with their families. Everyone was always welcome in the Penner home.

Mom and Dad shared many years enjoying the fruits of their labour. Spending time in Florida for winter vacations and visiting friends and family in Alberta, B.C., Ontario, and Palm Springs. These visits involved family celebrations. Mom and Dad were proud of all of Kathrynn's academic accomplishments as well as sharing her love and talents with her animals.

There were sojourns shared with Betty and Dennis Cutt, stopping for a picnic and a beautiful vista, time together was not rushed. Sheila and Sean had hosted many family gatherings and outings together in B.C. They traveled to Europe with friends and family, China with Sheila where the Great Wall of China was a highlight. Dad loved history and found their trip with Karen to Boston and the "Cape" a worthwhile adventure. The Taylor family was also chosen as travel companions to many sunny destinations. Mom and Dad have had many great times shared with Adriene and Michael Gobuty in Palm Springs together as well as Winnipeg. There was never a dull moment, the Gobuty family has been very generous with open invitations to visit. Their friendship has been truly treasured over many years.

Mom and Dad were very grateful for many weekends together with Helen's niece Vicky and her husband Charlie. Vicky has never walked through the door without an armful of butter tarts, fresh bread jam busters, fresh fruit and lots of enthusiasm. Charlie and Dad have shared many pots of coffee and conversations together.

We are so thankful Mom and Dad choose Charleswood to be their home for the past 60 years. Having so many memories with the Braunstein’s, Teeple’s, and the Kunz family.

The neighbourhood embraced new friendships we consider our extended family. The Murray’s and the Henderson’s have built a bond on a daily basis of what a true friendship is. While Kate Murray was growing up she became more of a granddaughter than a neighbour.

We have shed many tears together with the recent loss of some of our closest friends. This has been a reminder of just how precious life is.

Between our friends and family there has been an abundance of food and flowers with hugs of support to give us the hope needed to keep moving forward. Knowing Peter has truly chosen a good life for all of us to share while he will be catching up with many who are still in our hearts today.

We are overwhelmed with all the support from friends and family during this time of grief. There are many wonderful people who have been in Dad's life that we have not mentioned, who may attend to say their farewell. You have been appreciated more than you know.

On behalf of the Penner family we would like to say a sincere, heartfelt THANK YOU for a life time of cherished memories and especially now for your friendship and support.

We would like to express our gratitude for all of these great times together, thank you again so much we are forever grateful.

The Penner family.