Wrangell Sentinel -

Mabel E, Fennimore, 89, passed away January 12, 2016 in Wasilla, Alaska.

She was born in Wray, Colo. on Jan. 22, 1926. After graduating from Queen

Anne High School in 1944, Mabel worked on the Bremerton Ferry where she met

the love of her life, Paul Fennimore. Paul and Mabel were married in 1945 in Seattle, Wash. and upon his discharge from the Marine Corps moved to Mt. Angel, Ore. to make their home. In 1960 the family moved to Wrangell, Alaska. Mabel loved to fish and her pickled salmon and shrimp were in great demand.

Always an active member of the

community with a devotion to children, Mabel served on Wrangell's School Board, taught tap and ballroom dancing and in 1976 implemented the first "Safety Town" program for children in the state of Alaska serving as director for 14 years. A dedicated member of the American Legion Auxiliary since 1951 she held every office at the unit level, served as director of Alaska Girls State for three years, as well as serving as Alaska Department President and National Executive Committeewoman. Mabel worked 14 years as moderator for the State of Alaska Legislative Information Office. In 1994 Mabel was Wrangell's Beta Sigma Phi "Woman of the Year."

Moving to Wasilla Alaska's Primrose Retirement Community in 2009, Mabel continued to enjoy quilting, puzzles, crafts of all kinds and spending time with her friends and family.

Mabel was preceded in death by her

husband, Paul Fennimore, son Ron Fennimore, and grandson Alexander Newcomb.

Mabel is survived by her sister Bernice Engel, daughter in-law Evi Fennimore, children Howard (Tonnie) Fennimore of Sagle, Idaho, Sue (Bill) Moore of Palmer, Alaska, Laura (Bruce) Siggins of Vancouver, Wash. and Jeannette (Kurt) Newcomb of Wasilla. She also leaves 14 grandchildren, 28 great grandchildren, and one great great grandchild.

Mabel was preceded in death by her

husband, Paul Fennimore, son Ron Fennimore, and grandson Alexander Newcomb.

A funeral mass was held at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Wrangell on Tues., Jan. 19. In lieu of flowers

memorial contributions can be made to a children's charity of your choice. Due to Mabel's love of puzzles feel free to donate a jigsaw puzzle to your local senior

center or assisted living home in Mabel's name.