Helen Fenger's Obituary
Helen Fenger, a long time resident of San Carlos passed away peacefully in her sleep with her loving daughter by her side in Novato, California on August 20, 2011. Born on September 5, 1919 to Clyde and Lola Mae Kepner, she was 91 years old. Since her birth in Brownstown, Illinois Helen had lived in Florida, Texas, Idaho, Wisconsin and finally, California, where she has resided with her husband since 1960. In 1936, Helen graduated from Harlandale High School in San Antonio, Texas. Helen was an expert in the kitchen, winning many prizes and awards for her cakes, pies and cookies entered into local county fair contests. Her other hobbies included roller skating, bowling, reading, gardening and crocheting afghans for her family and friends. On September 20, 1945, Helen married, Robert Fenger in San Antonio, Texas. They would have celebrated their 66th Wedding Anniversary next month.In 1960, the couple moved to California where Helen began her career at the Macy’s distribution store on Paul Avenue in San Francisco. Her career with the company would eventually span over 15 years. Helen is survived by her husband of 65 years, Robert Fenger, Retired Major, USAF of San Carlos; her daughter, Linda Ferguson and Son-in-law Patrick McGowan of Novato and her brother-in-law, James Fenger also of San Carlos and her three nephews, Richard, James and Thomas Boyer of Michigan.Helen always had a little question she’d say when first engaging you in conversation, “you want to know something ?” and what followed could be a wise tip,a piece of well deserved “advice” or one of her many well lived life stories. She wasfull of spunk, kind to all who knew her and when it was needed, she’d slip a littleextra into your pocket, “just to get you by”. Sometimes it was homemade chocolate chip cookies or a couple of dollars, Helen always knew just what you needed! At her request, funeral services will be held privately and interment will be trusted to the care of Skylawn Funeral Home and Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers,plants, or memorial donations, Helen loved animals and asks that you give a support gift to your local Humane Society.
What’s your fondest memory of Helen?
What’s a lesson you learned from Helen?
Share a story where Helen's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Helen you’ll never forget.
How did Helen make you smile?