Benjamin Aaron Fenninger

Benjamin Aaron Fenninger, 89, died on January 26 after an extended illness. He was the son of the late John and Alta Hershey Fenninger. Since 2005, he was the husband of Mary Caleo Fenninger, with whom he resided in New Providence, PA. Mary brought much joy to his later life; she provided great comfort and compassionate, selfless care during his illness. Previously he enjoyed fifty seven years of marriage to the late Dorothy McGowan Fenninger, who preceded him in death in 2003; together they resided at Blackhorse, Parkesburg, PA. He was the father of Benjamin W. Fenninger (North Carolina) and D. Robert Fenninger (Lancaster). He was the grandfather of Annette Illes, Lori Devine, Dale Fenninger, and Aaron Fenninger; he was blessed with 6 great grand children. He is survived by a twin sister, Barbara Miller. Preceding him in death were two siblings, Katherine Buckwalter and Carl Fenninger. During the last years, his family included Mary’s children and grandchildren who embraced Ben as their own, providing much support and amazing care during his illness. Daughters Mary Westnedge, Debbie Simpson and Virginia Rucci along with their husbands, 7 grandchildren and 4 great grand children were all part of Ben’s life in the last decade and all are grateful for the blessings they brought during his later life. Benjamin graduated from the former Paradise High School, where he enjoyed basketball and other sports. Early in life he was employed by Armstrong World Industries, until he began his lifelong career with Herr Foods Inc. Beginning with Herr’s at the earliest stage of its founding, he was their first sales person. He spent 61 years with the company, and retired as Vice President of Sales, having been part of a long and important period of growth for the company. Ben, in addition to his career, was active in civic engagement and providing spiritual support to the benefit of others. In almost a second career, he served as a West Sadsbury Township Supervisor (Chester County) and as a member of the Board of Octorara Area School District. He allocated much time in service to those in need, notably at a parish in the Welsh Mountains of Lancaster County, and to causes such as Water Street Mission (Lancaster) and The Bowery Mission (NYC). His abiding faith and spirit of charitable giving were a mainstay of his life, and these will be his lasting legacy among those whom he served and who benefited from his guidance. His many hobbies included gardening on a large scale, fishing for relaxation, golf for social purposes, and keeping up with the world of sports, without particular allegiance to any team or sport. For many years he enjoyed traveling with his wife and family, with summer visits to the Chesapeake and, in retirement, wintering in Florida. The funeral will be held on Friday January 31 at the Mount Vernon Mennonite Church (1 Lighthouse Drive, Kirkwood, PA 17536), where he enjoyed services late in life. The family will receive visitors beginning at 10 AM, with the funeral following at 11 AM, Pastor Mervin Charles officiating. Interment will be private at the convenience of the family at Upper Octorara Presbyterian Church, Parkesburg PA. Please omit flowers. Memorial donations can be directed to Mount Vernon Mennonite Church.

Benjamin Aaron Fenninger

January 28, 2014