Sister Mary Antonee ND 6013 PDF Download
(Helen Marie PFENNING)
Immaculate Conception Province, USA
Date and Place of Birth: November 12, 1945 Cleveland, Ohio
Date and Place of Profession: August 16, 1966 Chardon, Ohio
Date and Place of Death: June 6, 2026 Health Care Center, Chardon
Date and Place of Burial: June 18, 2026 Resurrection Cemetery, Chardon
Helen was the youngest of the three children born to Joseph and Katherine (Armbruster) Pfenning. As a result of an early childhood undetected hip dislocation, she was challenged with significant mobility issues her whole life—a journey of faith and service. Her parents, immigrants from Eastern Europe, created and nurtured a happy family where love for God, hard work and love for each other were precious gifts.
Helen attended Blessed Sacrament parish elementary school and then St. Stephen High School. She loved learning and participated in many activities. The school, staffed by the Sisters of Notre Dame, was known for its exceptional business program. Helen excelled as she prepared for her future. In her senior year, Helen seriously considered a vocation to religious life. With the guidance of her teachers, she entered the Sisters of Notre Dame on September 8, 1963. At investment she received the name Sister Mary Antonee, a name she treasured. St. Anthony became a trusted friend and constant companion.
Building on her business training from high school, Sister Mary Antonee earned a degree in business education from Notre Dame College in South Euclid. She taught high school students for the next ten years. Through studies at the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Sister received a master’s degree in business administration. During these years of study, she made more good friends and acquired a unique pride in being a graduate of the university.
Sister was assigned to the SND community finance office where she ministered as assistant treasurer and medical benefits administrator. She was community-minded, thorough and patient in explaining processes and procedures. She kept copious notes to hand on to her successors. After Sister Mary Margaret Hess, she was recognized as being the guiding force behind the annual ND Chicken Barbecue and Boutique. No detail escaped her attention. Her ability to relate to others, especially via telephone, was legendary. Friend-raising was one of her greatest gifts.
After serving in the SND finance office, Sister Mary Antonee ministered for more than twenty-five years as business manager at Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin School. She accomplished her work with a conscientious, loving spirit—nothing was too much. We witnessed her kindness, her selfless generosity and her warm hospitality.
Sister Mary Antonee was a woman of quiet prayer whose life was dedicated to the service of others. She treasured her family, her many friends and colleagues, and all of her Notre Dame Sisters.We are grateful for the witness of her life. May she rest in the gentle love of our good and gracious God.
