Sophia Taets Fenton

Sophia was born on February 26, 1946, in Eerbeek, Netherlands, to Sophia and Klaas Bosch. Her story began with both challenge and triumph, born prematurely at home, weighing just three pounds. From those humble beginnings, she grew into a woman of remarkable strength, determination, and warmth, touching countless lives along the way.

At the age of one, Sophia immigrated to Canada with her parents and siblings; Nelly, Klaas, and Irene. The family later welcomed her youngest sister, Anne. Sophia’s childhood was spent in Haileybury, Ontario, where she helped her father, a beekeeper, and shared many joyful days playing and working alongside her siblings. In high school, Sophia was a gifted athlete, excelling in basketball and track. She often recalled, with pride and humour, how her height and strength gave her an edge, traits that later served her well on the golf course.

Shortly after high school, Sophia married her first husband, George. Though their time together was brief, George passed away when Sophia was just 22, their love brought her the joy of her first daughter, Deanna.

Following this early tragedy, Sophia found love again with her life partner, Jim. Together, they built a beautiful life and added two more daughters to their family. They ran a successful hairdressing business in Guelph, where Sophia’s kindness and compassion made her not only a trusted professional but also a beloved friend to many.

Sophia was a woman of many talents. She enjoyed curling, sewing, and embroidery, and she especially loved baking, often with her grandchildren by her side. She delighted in fishing during visits with her daughter Jody and was always ready to lend a hand to daughter Kelly with her painting business.

In retirement, Sophia and Jim spent their summers at Pike Lake, where she found joy in golfing and relaxing with friends. Her golf skills were exceptional, she won numerous tournaments and proudly placed third in the province at the 2002 Golf Association of Ontario championship, earning a spot at the Nationals in New Brunswick.

Most importantly, Pike Lake was a place of cherished memories. Sophia treasured weekends with her grandchildren, filled with swimming, golf, campfires, fishing, laughter, and cozy sleepovers in the bunkhouse. These moments will be remembered and treasured for generations.

Winters were spent in Florida, where the golfing continued and friendships flourished. The true highlights, however, were family visits, especially trips to Disney with her grandchildren. Sophia never turned down a ride or a souvenir request, embracing every moment with joy and generosity.

Sophia now reunites with her beloved husband Jim, whom she was apart from for only 55 days, as well as her parents and siblings Nelly, Klaas, and Irene. She leaves behind her dear sister Anne; her three loving daughters, Deanna (Don), Jody, and Kelly (Jason); her cherished grandchildren, Jesse, Jordan, Mikayla, Maddox, and MeKenna; her great-grandchild, Axel; and countless nieces and nephews, all of whom carry forward her love, humor, and indomitable spirit.

Though she came from modest beginnings, Sophia’s life was a testament to resilience, finding strength in hardship, joy in the everyday, and love and laughter at the heart of it all.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, October 26th from 2pm-4pm at Gilbert MacIntyre & Son Funeral Home, 1099 Gordon Street, Guelph, Ontario.

Sophia’s laughter, love, and legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be forever missed and lovingly remembered.