Winnifred Fenn

Winnifred (Winnie) Fenn, a woman of quiet strength and remarkable resilience, passed away peacefully on September 21, 2025, at the age of 87. Born Winnifred Cluett in the small fishing village of Garnish, Newfoundland, on October 12, 1937, her life began with a fight. A premature baby not expected to survive, she was lovingly placed in a box on the open door of a wood stove to keep her warm. Her parents, George and Adelaide Cluett, didn't give her a middle name, thinking she wouldn't survive, but Winnie proved them all wrong, beginning a lifelong pattern of quiet tenacity.

At just 19, her brilliance was evident when she worked as a code breaker with a security clearance at the Halifax Dockyards. It was there she watched the teletype machine inform her of the nationalization of the Suez Canal, a moment that linked her directly to a piece of world history; many years later, she witnessed in person the grandeur of the container ships passing through the canal.

A dedication to her family followed this early chapter of her life. After starting a family with her late husband, Norman Fenn, she left the Dockyards but never left hard work behind. Known to many as Winnie, she spent many years as a cashier at the Dominion store on Bayer's Road, where she was known by name and cherished by all. She also worked tirelessly for the city and police department, where her exceptional standards ensured every space she tended to was immaculate.

Winnie was a master of her hands, creating beautiful afghans, baby clothes, and sweaters with her knitting and crocheting needles, leaving behind a legacy of warmth and comfort for her family and friends. When she wasn't creating, she was solving—losing herself for hours in lexicons and word searches.

Winnie had a profound love for animals, especially dogs. Her canine companions, including her cherished Muffin and friendly Chewy, brought her immeasurable joy and were a constant source of comfort. Their quiet companionship was a testament to the special bond she shared with them. Even in her final year, visits from dogs at her nursing home were a highlight she always looked forward to.

Despite her humble beginnings, Winnie was a quiet adventurer. She travelled to Egypt five times to visit her daughter, son-in-law, and 3 grandchildren. She sailed the Nile, explored the ancient pyramids, and even ventured into the heart of the great structures. She also visited Paris, standing beneath the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe.

Winnie will be deeply missed by her family, including: Winnie’s son: Norman Ernest Fenn Junior, his son, Norman Fenn 3rd and his wife Else Fenn and their children Rebekah, Simon, and Calla, his daughter, Natasha Gemby and Micheal Folco, and Natasha’s son Christian, Winnie’s daughter, Winnifred Youssef and her husband, Ashraf Youssef, their son, Ibraheem Youssef, their son, Ameer Youssef and his wife, Sara Saker, and their daughters: Salwa, Yusra, and Noor, their son, Aabid Youssef and his wife, Emily Whalen

She will also be missed by her dear friends: Roy Green, who visited her weekly, Julia Demone, her co-worker at Dominion, Theresa Miller, her sister-in-law who always kept in touch Sandy, who always had a hug and chat with Winnie and made sure to bring her cat Boots around for a cuddle, Tish Pero, who lovingly styled Winnie’s hair and made her feel so special.

Winnifred Fenn is reunited with her late husband, Norman Fenn, her brothers Hector and Stanley Cluett, and her sisters-in-law Shirley and Beatrice Cluett.

A small burial service will be held on Wednesday September 24, at 10 a.m. at Fairview Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest next to her loving husband, who passed away in 2003.

Endless appreciation to the staff at Moody Hall in Bedford, for their excellent care and kindness, and to the staff of Unit 8.4 at the Halifax Infirmity, for their compassionate care.