Volunteer Meet

On September 7, 2008 we lost a man who had won the hearts of all of us at Bend Area Habitat for Humanity. Feenan Jennings personified the work, love of community, generosity, and spirit of Bend Habitat for the last twelve years. Feenan came to Bend after a long career as a distinguished scientist and oceanographer. He and his wife ML have been keystones of Habitat's work in the Bend community, helping to create a robust organization able to meet the needs of families for decent, affordable housing. Among his many contributions, Feenan served as our Board President, was grant-writer in chief for years, and was a "regular" construction volunteer at our build sites until shortly before his death.

While sadness inevitably touches our emotions, I believe Feenan would prefer that we celebrate his life and the way he lived. In all things that matter, Feenan was a model for all of us at Bend Habitat. He was quiet but always worthy of close attention. He was easy going yet totally committed. He was just one of the guys, but unquestionably one of a kind.

On a personal note, I had the privilege of working with Feenan until just a few weeks ago, building homes, sharing stories and absorbing kernals of his vast life experiences. Though we were separated by a generation in age, Feenan was my buddy and I will miss him in too many ways.

Bob Cudlin

Board President