It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Susan Jo Ann Penner (née Taber) on June 22, 2026, at the age of 69. Susan will be remembered for many things, especially her unwavering faith in God, her deep love for her family, and her gift for caring for children. Her faith shaped the way she loved, served, and cared for others, and above all else, her family was her greatest joy.
Susan leaves behind her husband of 52 years, Larry Penner; her daughters, Melany Cook and Tammy Nollert; her sons-in-law, Brad Cook and Mike Nollert; and her grandchildren, Mackenzie, Zac, Katie, and Jonah, who brought immeasurable joy to her life. The loss of our wife, mother, and grandmother is impossible to put into words. She was the heartbeat of our family—the one who kept us connected, cared for, and loved—and her absence will be felt every day.
To many in the Fergus community, she was known simply as Susie. Through Young Hearts Childcare, she created far more than a childcare business; she created a home away from home for countless children and families. Susie had a remarkable gift for making every child feel safe, valued, and loved.
Susan leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue to be felt in the lives of her family, the children she nurtured, and the many friends whose lives she touched. While our hearts are broken, we take comfort in knowing that Susan is with the Lord she faithfully loved and served. We are grateful for every moment we were given with her and for the lasting impact she made on our lives.
One has but to read the amazing list of tributes that flooded her place on the funeral home’s web site to get an insight of the incredible impact that Sue Penner had on so very many people – people who became family to Sue and she to them.
Sue was a faithful member of the Guelph Church of Christ, both in its current form and in the previous one. She will be greatly missed.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honour Susan’s memory may make a donation to Sick Kids Foundation, a cause that reflects her lifelong love and care for children.