Francis (Fran) B. Fenn 88, formerly of Watertown, passed away peacefully Thursday, July 22, 2021, at his home in Niantic.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Sheila (Rantanen) Fenn, daughters Jill Eberle and Meg Fenn, brother Larry Fenn, granddaughters, Jamie Tomassetti, Lindsey Eberle & Chelsea Burns, stepsons Curtis and Scott Rintz, along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Fran was born March 13, 1933, in Waterbury, to Francis and Mary (Shoner) Fenn. He was preceded in death by his parents, his son John “Jack” Fenn and his sister Patricia Fenn.
Starting as a 12-year-old caddy at Waterbury Country Club, Fran had a long and successful career as a licensed grounds keeper and club manager for several country clubs in New Haven County. When he retired and moved to East Lyme, he used his greens keeping skills to help family and neighbors with their landscaping and well-manicured lawns.
Fran was a proud Army Vet. Enlisting to serve during the Korean War.
Fran and Sheila were married in 1999 on a beautiful summer day, at Hammonasset beach in Madison, surrounded by family. They spent many happy years together playing golf, traveling, and growing vegetables and herbs for friends. They moved several times traveling from Illinois to Crescent Beach and finally settling in Niantic in 2011.
Fran and Sheila shared a joy of Christmas. They spent many weekends in December volunteering at the The Abbey of Regina Laudis, in Bethlehem, Connecticut.
Through all his traveling Fran made lifelong friends. Many who met him, enjoyed his company, and treasured his friendship. Fran loved chocolate and always had a candy to share with anyone he met. He will be missed by all those who knew and loved him.
A Eucharist of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 31, at St. John's Episcopal Church, 400 Main Street, Niantic. Burial will be private for the family at the State Veterans Cemetery in Middletown.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. John’s Episcopal Church.
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