Ethel Betty Penney

It is with profound deep sadness and heavy hearts that the family of Ethel Betty Penney (Nunny) announces her passing at the age of 95 years. She passed away peacefully after a long battle with dementia on April 22, 2021 at the Deer Lodge Centre.

Ethel was predeceased by both her parents and beloved husband Fredrick Bruce Penney (1993)

and siblings, Norman Newmark, Titus Newmark, Archie Newmark, Lola Rajotte, Mitzi Newmark, Edythe Newmark, and her grandson, Derek Behr.

Ethel is survived by her daughters Susan Evans (John) and Barb Behr.

Ethel loved her grandkids, Trevor Behr (Kelly), Julie Evans and Jayme Eichel (Matt) and her great grandkids Derick Behr-Kirby, Jayden Kirby-Behr, and Grace Eichel.

She will be loved and remembered by her long-time friend Lorraine McIntosh.

Ethel met her loving husband Bruce during the time of the WWII. They later married and

lived in Winnipeg where they started their lives and raised their 2 loving daughters with absolute

unconditional love and commitment towards their family. Mom worked for Eaton’s for 25 years in the Credit Office department and made many friends along the way. Mom and Dad lived in the Wolseley area and later moved to the Fort Garry neighbourhood in the 1950’s. They made many neighbourhood friends, many of which became lifelong friendships. They both especially enjoyed having friends over to the house to play Bridge.

Mom enjoyed watching all CFL football games, but especially when the Blue Bombers played. If her team were losing and you said something about it, you would be sure to get an earful! Her Hungarian background contributed to her sassy comebacks.

She loved all types of spicy foods and could never get enough of her favourite spicy jalapeno chips, the hotter the better she would always say.

Mom loved cooking and baking, and we always looked forward to Christmas Dinner or any other occasion as we knew we would get the best home cooked meals where the taste lasted in your mouth forever and built many lasting memories.

Mom loved to play cards, especially cribbage. She enjoyed playing card games for hours when family got together. The kitchen would be filled with laughter and lots of good-natured ribbing on many a Sunday afternoon.

Mom loved to travel especially when you mentioned Grand Forks, North Dakota. She would always say yes and when she could not go any longer, she would request her favorite items from family when they went.

Mom loved to gamble. She loved playing Kinsmen Bingo and thus began her passion to play. Mom and Barb had many trips to the casinos in Winnipeg as well as many to South Beach which usually consisted of a full day trip followed by supper.

When mom was diagnosed with dementia, it was devastating for all to hear. Mom also suffered from arthritis for many years and her mobility was hindered in many ways, but still she was feisty and always had a smile on her face and greeted you and others kindly.

Mom was the kind of person who would not hesitate to go out of her way to help others with no questions asked. Many of her siblings lived for a time with Mom and Dad whenever there was a need. She took great pride in taking care of family, dear friends, and in-laws. This included taking them on shopping trips in her van and having them join the family for special dinners.

She will be greatly missed by all for her kind soul, quick wit, clever comebacks, and zest for life.

A special thanks to Lindsay Bacala and all of the dedicated staff in Tower 7 Dementia Care Unit at the Deer Lodge Centre over the past few years for all the love, care, and compassion you gave to Mom.

Until we meet again Ethel, Mom, Grandma and Great-Grandma!

In lieu of flowers, friends and family may desire to donate to a charity of their choice.