Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
John K. Fenningham, Sr.
1954 - 2021
John K. Fenningham, Sr.
1954 - 2021
Obituary
Guest Book
John Fenningham, Sr. Obituary
Fenningham
John K., Sr. suddenly February 6, 2021. John was a “72” graduate of Father Judge High School where he played varsity sports including football, basketball and baseball . He was recognized as a 3 letter varsity “All Catholic” athlete and was awarded a football scholarship to The University of Maryland. John completed his studies at and graduated from Temple University. John coached football at St. Matthew Elementary School, Penn Charter High School and Father Judge High School. He was a lifeguard for the North Wildwood Beach Patrol from 1977-1984 having achieved Captain status in 1984. John was an inspector for the United States Customs and Border Protection. John was a proud father and as mentioned by John’s youngest brother Jim he was a Big Brother to all, his brother Tom stated that John made everyone feel like they were his best friend.
John was the son of the late Terrence F. and Doris (nee Henry) Fenningham. Father of John K. Fenningham, Jr. (Christina) and the late Lauren Fenningham. Brother of Eileen Mitchell, Kathy McCollum (Charles), Maureen Mattern, Terrence Fenningham (Martha), Thomas J. Fenningham (Patricia) and James Fenningham (Tina). John will be sadly missed by his many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Relatives and friends are invited to call Saturday, February 13th 9:15-10:15 AM St. Matthew Church 3000 Cottman Avenue followed by Funeral Mass 10:30 AM. Interment private.
In lieu of flowers donations to Father Judge Athletic Department 3301 Solly Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19136 in John’s memory would be appreciate by his family.
Attendees must wear a mask, practice social distancing, and refrain from physical contact.
Arrangements by: VISCONTO FUNERAL HOME, INC. www.viscontofuneralhome.com
Bob & Sue Woods
February 3, 2023
We can be sure that Big John will join Little Johnny in rooting for the Eagles next weekend. Although we're true-blue Giants fans, we'll refer to Isaiah 40:31 for the sake of the Fenninghams and their team: "They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."
Judi Woods
February 3, 2023
Big john you left too soon..I will always remember your smile and kindness..know without a doubt you would be proud of your amazing son Johnny..he loves you so I'll always watch over him and love him like he is my own..so rest easy and we will see you on the other side
Judi Woods
February 3, 2022
Well Big John you've been gone a while now, but just want to let you know you are not forgotten. Your fabulous son Little Johnny, as I call him, would have made you so proud this past weekend.. he and his sweetheart Christina got married and it was the "Party of the Century" He paid an awesome tribute to you and it brought a tear to his eye. So Big John keep shining your Light on your son, he is a remarkable young man I am sure you already know that. See you on the other side.
Joseph Lorenc
May 1, 2021
Wow, I just found out about John's death this am. To say it bluntly I do not go through a day in my life that I do not use John's coaching and mentoring to motivate me and help me achieve my goals with my friends, family and life. The 4 years I spent at Judge with John, Billy and Whitey sullivan were transformative to my life. John was the best coach I ever had. His mentoring and focus on hard work to achieve long term goals - I have lived my life by the internal drive taught by John during my years at Judge. I am sad to learn of John's passing and my lost chance to catch up and thank him for his gift. I do have consolation that John's drive and passion will remain in me for the rest of my life. RIP John
How you can show support
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Joe Kamnik
April 17, 2021
God Bless!
With John and Ken Pawloski, 1983
Tommy Gordon
February 18, 2021
Very sorry to hear of John's passing. He was a good friend and co-worker on NWBP. I still remember sitting with him one afternoon during rookie school. I found out later that he enjoyed sitting with me so much that he asked Capt. Cavalier to have me as his stand partner. That didn't happen, but I have many, many memories of working the beach--and nightlife in Wildwood!--with John. I am really glad I got a chance to see him at the reunion two summers ago. My condolences to his family.
Jim Waddington
February 17, 2021
My condolences to the Fenningham family. I was shocked to hear about John’s passing. He was the guy, the man, the picture perfect lifeguard. But more importantly he was a really nice and good person. It didn’t matter who you were he treated everyone the same. I hope the great memories his family and friends have provided some comfort during this sad time.
Big John and son John
Judi Woods
February 17, 2021
J.Michael Peyton
February 17, 2021
I would like to say that I have nothing but fond memories of John. He was a natural leader and always had a great disposition. Hanging out with him in the late '70s and early '80s along with NWBP brings back great memories.I'll never forget the blast we had in Fort Lauderdale at the "Candy Store". And later that night when we both had rented white Riviera's driving into Pompano beach for some more late night fun. Don't let John's passing take away from the great and fond memories that everyone has shared. May God bless your soul! Michael "Rock" Peyton
Sue Keough Gill
February 16, 2021
Maureen, Jimmy, Tina and family, I just want to say that I am thinking of you and your family at this time. I remember visiting with John a few years ago on the beach. He was visiting with my brother, Hughie. A fun visit as was his way.
John always had a way of making you feel like he cared about you and what was happening in your life. He was kind and respectful. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Take good care.
Susie Keough Gill
JOSEPH STANTON
February 14, 2021
I can tell you there will NEVER be another Man like JOHN, I had the pleasure of meeting John on many Occasions with My good Friend Jack Bolger who I believe Coached with John at Penn Charter, to say John was an Average guy would be an Understatement, whenever I saw Him on the Avenue or in the Company of other People, He Would Always come over & talk to Me, & not just say hi but have a good Conversation with You & asked how I was, the Family, if I’ve seen anybody Lately but He was a People Person, the kind of FRIEND that you WISHED Everyone could be like. JOHN WAS A GENUINE PERSON, That not only am I Gonna Miss but we’re ALL GONNA MISS HIM.... R.I.P. MY FRIEND ❤❤
Stephen Compton
February 14, 2021
So sad to hear about about Johns passing! He’s going to missed by alot of people! My thoughts and prayers go out to all his families and friends!!!
Mike Amoroso
February 14, 2021
Have lots of good memories with John. May he Rest In Peace. Amo.
Jim Scanlon
February 14, 2021
The world has lost an awesome soul. You are in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you.
Ed Fallon
February 14, 2021
My deepest condolences to John's family and friends. John was my high school coach, and the best coach I ever had at any level. I am deeply indebted to him for the lessons he instilled in me. RIP coach.
MATTHEW KAUPP
February 14, 2021
Godspeed my friend. I'm glad I got to know you playing for Penndel Pros and also coaching together.
Lan Tsan
February 14, 2021
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always. All the memories rushing back!!! Do not know where to start!!! You such a wonderful father, Coach, coworkers, and friend. Feeling blessed to know and shared time with John! Rest In Peace. John is with God and with his daughter! Condolences to your family
Larry Wargo
February 14, 2021
John was a great inspiration to me. If it was an upcoming workout, or race, he would always have some encouraging words to keep me motivated. Especially after a poor workout or getting crushed in a race he always knew what to say to make you feel better. He treated me like a Fenningham little brother for which I am so grateful. Thank you John and God Bless You.
David Horn
February 14, 2021
I got to know John when he moved to the 10th floor of the Custom House. He was always a class act, a positive force, and freely shared his wit and wisdom.
Rest well, my friend, you've earned it.
Marjory Walker
February 13, 2021
John was such a kind, generous and loving gentleman with a spirit that had the beautiful and rare ability to make everyone in the room feel like his best friend instantly! We will always carry the memories of the laughter amongst his coworkers and stories he would share about his athletic achievements and coaching days. (Plus that impromptu blackjack game in the middle of the workday!) Miami stories, coaching stories, so many great memories of working next to you and sharing moments. You will be sorely missed by everyone who was lucky enough to have known you. You live on forever in our hearts.
Rick Leonetti
February 13, 2021
I last saw John before a Judge @ Lincoln Thanksgiving Day game where we had Honorary Captains for Athletes Helping Athletes and he told me how great it was having our special needs kids as part of their team... He also told me how great it was to see me after all of these years... John will be missed...RIP John.
Geralyn Visconto
February 13, 2021
Our condolences to a beautiful family and dear friend, John. He was such a bright star. Always had a big smile on his face. My husband, Tom always told me great stories about him. John will be truly missed by all, but never forgotten. Rest in peace, sweet John. See you on the other side. God bless you and your lovely family!!!!
Francis Costello & Family
February 13, 2021
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Ceila Diamond
February 13, 2021
Rest in Peace John. Condolences to the Fenningham Family.
Susan Gillin
February 13, 2021
My deepest sympathy to the Fenningham family on the sudden loss of John. He was a grade school classmate with me and my late husband Jim and a part of the many guys known in the Mayfair section as the Ma Browns crowd. My husband always would laugh when speaking of John and tell a story about something he did or remembered. It was impressive how often the friends would get together and how they showed up for each other, and , still do.As I know well, another loved one gone too soon! But, as our faith teaches us, they're the lucky ones!! Susan Gillin
Coach Tom Rooney
February 12, 2021
To The Fenningham Family, John was all the man you could hope for in a student, an athlete, and a friend.. It was an honor to teach, to coach, and to know him. John always had time to sit down and listen to a friend. John, you and your family are in my prayers.
Lorraine and Joe Maguire
February 12, 2021
I didn’t know John but was a year younger than him at St. Matts. Everyone knew of John. He was bigger than life. I know Maureen and Jimmy and their kids. They are wonderful people. I am so sorry for the family’s loss. It is so hard to lose a brother. We are thinking and praying for you ❤
Vincent, Robert, Theresa, Stephen, Maureen, Kate and Joseph. Gwiazdowski
February 12, 2021
To all the Fenninghams;
We are so sorry and saddened to hear of the passing of John. Prayers from our family to yours.
The Gwiazdowski Family
Mason Family
February 12, 2021
What an amazing person and what a remarkable life. We all feel so lucky that we got to know him. Thanks for always being there. Rest In Peace!
Missy Pilewski
February 12, 2021
John Coates
February 12, 2021
It was a pleasure to know John, I was a classmate and teammate of his on FJ baseball. He always had time to sit down and share a story and a laugh. A friend to all, he will be missed. Rest In Peace my friend.
Cecilia Diamond
February 12, 2021
John was a great next door neighbor to me for almost 10 years on Princeton Avenue. He was always smiling. I could never tell if he was being serious or joking with me when he would tell me stories. I used to tell him all the time, "put a lock on your front door!" He would just smile. I guess he knew no one would be stupid enough to break into that home with all those big guys living there! My condolences to the entire Fenningham Family. I am sorry for your loss. May your brother John rest in peace.
Jane Dangler
February 12, 2021
John was a great guy,father,friend.He was a funny person,always prayers for all the Fenningham Family.
Dave & Karen Grandrino
February 11, 2021
Rest In Peace, prayers and best wishes for all the Fenningham family
Robert Koch
February 11, 2021
As John would say it's not the size of the dog in the fight,but the size of the fight in the dog,You can make it happen,Great guy who left his mark on a lot of people in a lot of ways,
Mike Monti
February 11, 2021
Rest in peace John.My deepest sympathies to the Fenningham Family
Tony Mayer
February 11, 2021
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
John Cush
February 11, 2021
We all lost a very special person in our life today. Since growing up on the 3400 block of Princeton Avenue, I have known the Fenningham family all of my life, Jimmy, being my best friend. My earlier memories of John were Jimmy and myself playing tackle football in the living room, while Mrs. Fenningham was working at Lit Brothers. John would play on his knees and we had to try to run with the football past him, I am pretty sure there was some furniture damaged and I usually went home with a few bruises. Growing up, all of us "Little Guys" looked up to John, he was bigger than life and I guess you could say he was our Idol. Being one of the neighborhood guys, his history as an athlete through grade school, high school and college, was something that made us proud. But John was more than that, he was the guy you could just sit down, have a few beers and talk to for hours. He always made you feel special and appreciated you, for being his friend. John, thank you for all the great memories you have given me and the stories, although maybe a little fabricated sometimes, you always brought a smile to my face whenever we hung out and talked. Love you my Brother and I will see you on the other side!
Missy Pilewski
February 11, 2021
Missy Pilewski
February 11, 2021
Hey Buddy!!! I could really use one of your enormous bear hugs right now. You were such a bright light in my life. I didn't know it in the beginning that I was the luckiest girl to sit next to you at the Customs House. We shared so many stories together and I have many fond memories of our time together. I remember we used to spend hours reminiscing about all things swimming and life guarding. We were even going to find a pool together and have a race...lol. I will miss going for pizza with you and Mulhern and the funny way you used to make your tea in the morning in that silly plastic beer mug. You were there for me John in the good times and the bad. I can still here your voice as you made your way through the door and Linda and I would chuckle as we received the morning hug. I'll miss you buddy and you will always be in my heart. I love ya Fen!
Bill Boyle
February 11, 2021
John was not only a great partner at work, but also a friend. I remember him coming over to my house to teach my son how to swim. With his great sense of humor, he once left an OT Card with me one Sunday. He would always ask how the family was, taking time to talk. Will miss you John. God Bless.
Judi Woods
February 11, 2021
Rest with the Angels Big John.. many fun memories of you when you first met my sister Margie Woods in FL all those years ago .. thank you for Loving Little Johnny and Maren.. see you on the other side.. Love Aunt Judi Woods
pat dugan
February 11, 2021
great friend at judge-played baseball together-hung together in north wildwood-always think of john and tommy fisher !!! rest in peace!!!
Susan Stranieri
February 11, 2021
John was my Customs OJT partner in our first year in Miami way back in 1987. We worked many months together and had all kinds of conversations about life. When John transferred to Customs Philadelphia we unfortunately lost touch. However, I got to see him when I transferred to Philadelphia and it was great to be able to talk to him again about the old and the new days. It's a shame to have lost such a good guy. My condolences to his family.
John Hart
February 11, 2021
Many of us had the privilege of first meeting John on the football fields. John not only coached us football he coached us on life. John’s workout routines were second to none. He taught us to leave everything we had on the field. This tenacity John drilled into us daily helped many of us in our future journeys we tackled. It was the foundation that enabled many of us to fight thru life’s obstacles for the better of our families and friends. John’s legacy he left us was to give it your best fight and leave nothing on the table. God bless John and his entire Family !
Tim Regan
February 11, 2021
My sincere condolences to the Fenningham Family. Some of my best memories were with John when he was the Captain of the North Wildwood Beach Patrol. A great coach, leader, mentor, and friend to many. We will miss you, John. RIP.
Jim CALLISTA
February 11, 2021
John was the best friend, co-worker, and boss I ever had on the N.W.B.P. I thought about him often.
He died way to soon!
He will be missed by everyone.
ED MCDEVITT
February 11, 2021
One of the Best Men I have ever known - Coach - Mentor - Friend and Brother.
ROBERT RICKUS
February 11, 2021
Rest in Peace big guy. You will be missed.
John O'Brien
February 11, 2021
My condolences! Many fond memories of my friendship and lifeguarding with John!
James Glatthorn
February 11, 2021
John will always be known as a great person, baseball teammate at Father Judge, classmate at Temple and a life-long friend who always gave a warm greeting when you ran in to him. As a teammate, knowing John Fenningham was on your team made all things easier as you knew he always had your back if anything went wrong.
Jim's wedding day. L to r: Larry Wargo, Bob Latanzi, John Cush, Jim the Groom, Steve "Sammy" Haverstick, and John
Hugh Keough
February 11, 2021
John on the far right on Jim's Wedding Day.
Jim Haring
February 10, 2021
My thoughts and prayers go out to John's entire family! I worked with John as a fellow Customs Insp. for many years. We shared many great times on the job and some outside of work. The things I always remember about John was his humility , warmth and kindness. he was a pleasure to be around. RIP John !! I will miss you!!!
Bill Edger, John, Ray Engle
Hugh Keough, Esq.
February 10, 2021
With the NWBP
Hugh Keough, Esq.
February 10, 2021
John, Hugh Keough, Jim Fenningham
Hugh Keough, Esq.
February 10, 2021
Hugh Keough, Esq.
February 10, 2021
Mike Regan, John, and Mike Goodze
Hugh Keough, Esq.
February 10, 2021
With Mike Goodze
Hugh Keough, Esq.
February 10, 2021
With the NWBP Lifeguards
Hugh Keough, Esq.
February 10, 2021
Hugh Keough, Esq.
February 10, 2021
Hugh Keough, Esq.
February 10, 2021
Hugh Keough, Esq.
February 10, 2021
Top row, 2nd from left
Hugh Keough, Esq.
February 10, 2021
John up top with the Tucker Trophy.
Hugh Keough, Esq.
February 10, 2021
FJHS Football
Hugh Keough, Esq.
February 10, 2021
John #41
Hugh Keough, Esq.
February 10, 2021
FJHS BASEBALL TEAM
Hugh Keough, Esq.
February 10, 2021
Top row, 2nd from left
Hugh Keough, Esq.
February 10, 2021
John and Bill Edger
Hugh Keough, Esq.
February 10, 2021
Hugh Keough, Esq.
February 10, 2021
Assorted photos of John and friends through the years.
Hugh Keougj
February 10, 2021
Hugh Keougj
February 10, 2021
Hugh Keougj
February 10, 2021
Hugh Keougj
February 10, 2021
Hugh Keougj
February 10, 2021
Hugh Keougj
February 10, 2021
Hugh Keougj
February 10, 2021
Hugh Keougj
February 10, 2021
Hugh Keougj
February 10, 2021
Hugh Keougj
February 10, 2021
John, John Jr., Lauren and Shree in Fort Myers, FL.
John Garvin
February 10, 2021
RIP, you were Judge royalty and a class act. Heaven just got a little richer.
Jim Ritvalsky
February 10, 2021
Deepest sympathy to all. May John rest in peace.
Rick Grimaldi NWBP
February 10, 2021
Rest In Peace John. Fair Winds and Calm Seas.
Tom Coates
February 10, 2021
I first met John on the FJ practice field his Sr year, my Soph year. John was all everything, yet he made the young guys feel accepted. He was a great competitor, a true leader and teammate. Prayers up for the entire Fenningham Family.
Ed and Claire Wyszynski
February 10, 2021
Remembering the good old times with a smile always on your face.
Rest In Peace John
Joseph McMahon
February 10, 2021
My first rookie lifeguard seating assignment was 21st with John where he 'taught me the ropes' of sitting the wood. My condolences to all John's life touched. God's Speed!
Rick Eife (Ryan '71)
February 10, 2021
My deepest condolences to the Fenningham Family on the loss of such a great guy. John started as a worthy opponent and became a good friend. He was always a gentleman, always a leader and always had that smile. Rest in Peace, John.
Ron and Jane Dangler
February 10, 2021
You were a good guy,RIP JOHN PRAYERS FOR THE FAMILY
Paul Mulhern
February 10, 2021
John was one of the few people that made you comfortable to share whatever was going on from daily routines, to personal struggles, to achievement celebrations to major life events. John and I bonded in many unique settings with US Customs. From seaport piers in PA, NJ and DE, to the airport arrivals hall or airfield with inbound flights, to running the firearms ranges in Pennsauken, NJ or Folcroft, PA, to the Customs House first floor, tenth floor, sub-basement or steps out front, to the pediatric intensive care unit with my daughter, to teaching our kids how to obtain high scores on marksmanship games in arcades in Wildwood, to his sons graduation ceremony at Parris Island in SC, to his last day with Customs when he would not let me make a speech about his exemplary career. I’m proud to say as I climbed the ranks John and I became closer as he was a loyal friend who provided wise counsel. His recent years included lots of mental and physical anguish. I hope my presence in those moments was as helpful as he was to me. RIP John, your heart and soul made a powerful impact everywhere you went. All who knew John are better and must work to maintain his spirit and remarkable ability to see the beauty in all things.
Steve Yentsch
February 10, 2021
Rest In Peace Big John. It was an honor to be a FJ baseball teammate of yours in 1972.
You will be surely missed.
Mike Kane
February 10, 2021
My deepest condolences go out to the Fenningham family for your loss. It was such a pleasure to have worked alongside John during our time on the NWBP. So glad to have caught up at our last reunion after so many years. Truly one of the nicest people I had the fortune to work with in North Wildwood.
Leon Harris
February 10, 2021
My condolences to John's family. A very special and humble man. A great Terrapin teammate. God bless
Gerry Sasse, (FH ‘70)
February 10, 2021
Fenningham Family: I’m deeply saddened by John’s passing. From the days from his freshman year at FJ, I got to see what a great athletic presence he was.
Years later, reconnecting at PC in the late 90’s where my son got to be coached by him (& Ed Gal), loving every minute of it.
I’ll miss the random conversations over the past several years just talking about sports and all of the great people we were associated with. A remarkable person.
Michael McCarrie
February 10, 2021
My condolences and prayers to the Fenningham family. John was a great listener and fiercely loyal friend. His devotion to his family was unparalleled as was his kindness. I'm lucky to have been able to know and have him as my friend. He was to all of us the big brother that stepped in with advice and direction when needed and had the selfless ability to step back to allow you to succeed. He was passionate about his family and friends and will be sorely missed. The world is not better off today. God bless John and his family.
The Gang
February 10, 2021
Always #1
February 10, 2021
Greg (George) Minniti
February 10, 2021
Rest In Peace, John, and my condolences to the family,
Ed Costello
February 10, 2021
Rest In Peace John.
Showing 1 - 100 of 129 results
2031 Vista St, Philadelphia, PA 19152
Make a Donation
in John Fenningham, Sr.'s name
How to support John's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor John Fenningham, Sr.'s life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
