Of Marshfield, passed away on March 31st, 2024, at the age of 95.
Loving mother of Edward J. Fenochietti of Marshfield, Susan Thomson (William) of Malden, Brian Fenochietti of Wakefield, Neal Fenochietti of Wilton Manor, FL., predeceased by beloved husband Edward and son John; cherished grandmother of Edward, Jennifer and William Jr., Jennifer and Brian and great-grandchildren Henry, Benjamin. She also leaves her many loving nieces and nephews.
After marrying the love of her life, Edward, they moved from Malden to Marshfield in the early 50's, opened the Checkerboard Restaurant, and enjoyed feeding Marshfield for 22 years. People who worked at the Checkerboard were never employees, they became family, in several cases literally!
While serving hungry Marshfield residents, she soon became active in local government, serving on many committees and commissions that were the foundation of what Marshfield has become today; the Marshfield Chamber of Commerce, development of the Master Plan for Marshfield, both for traffic and utilities, the Department of Public Works and the Green Harbor River Commission. She was a founding member for the Myles Standish Credit Union, which gave local business a source of funding so that our economy could begin to thrive.
As Plymouth County grew, so did Norma's participation. She worked with the Executive Director of the Plymouth Chamber of Commerce as well as the Greater Brockton Chamber of Commerce to create the Plymouth County Development Council promoting industry, recreation and tourism throughout the County.
Astute Democratic politicians began to realize that the South Shore was fertile ground for progressive activism and that Norma was an important key resource. When our very own young Philip Johnston needed mentorship and encouragement, Norma worked tirelessly for him in his quest for State Rep. When State Senator Allan McKinnon needed a Chief of Staff, Norma answered the bell. When Michael Dukakis needed a critical plurality in South Shore Support, Norma delivered 10 towns to the Democratic column in 1982. Michael, realizing talent when he saw it, made Norma his Director of Scheduling. These men not only acquired her talent and leadership skills but also became part of Norma's family and lifelong friends.
In 1988, when Michael Dukakis ran for President, Norma became the "Mother Hen", protecting and promoting his candidacy. Although unsuccessful, she was extremely proud of the many people's efforts. Many reunions have been held since amongst those who served. Good government was learned by all, and Norma taught the team that loyalty and honesty reigned supreme.
Norma returned with Allan when he was appointed Chairman of the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority. Together, they made the turnpike into one of the safest of any major turnpike in the nation.
Norma was a member of several Marshfield Organizations; the Democratic Town Committee, the Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary, the Marshfield Parade Committee which produced the Annual Recreation Day Parade. At the State level she was Vice Chair of the Massachusetts Democratic State Committee, mentoring many young political hopefuls, setting an example for all current and future aspirants.
Retired in 1996, she spent her retirement in Deltona, Florida, returning home several years ago. She died peacefully in Bridges Memory Care Assisted Living, Pembroke, surrounded by those who loved and cared for her.
Norma was a loving wife to Edward for 71 years and a loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She lived her life through "Faith, Family, and Friends", proving to all the importance and guidance required for a successful life. She will be dearly missed.
Visiting Hours on Wednesday, April 10th, 2024 from 9:00 to 11:30 am at the MacDonald Funeral Home, 1755 Ocean Street in Marshfield will conclude with a Funeral Procession to St. Ann by the Sea Parish Church, 591 Ocean Street in Marshfield, for a Funeral Service at 12:00 noon. Burial will be in the Winslow Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the St, Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
For online guestbook and driving directions, please visit the website: macdonaldfuneralhome.com
Visitation
MacDonald Funeral & Cremation Care Services
9:00 - 11:30 am
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