MPPD : Passing Of Former MPPD Chief John D. Fenner

Press release from Manassas Park Police Department:

August 27, 2021

It is with great sadness that the Manassas Park Police Department announces the death of former Chief of Police, John Dean Fenner.

On August 25, 2021, Chief Fenner passed away unexpectedly at his home in Louisa, Virginia at the age of 64.  Chief Fenner was hired by Manassas Park Police on September 28, 1979, rose through the ranks, and was promoted to Lieutenant on March 1, 1987.  Chief Fenner held that position until April 1, 2000, when he was promoted to Acting Chief following the retirement of the late Chief William “Bill” Francis Keifer Jr.

On July 1, 2000, Chief Fenner was promoted to the Chief of Police where he remained until he announced his retirement from the City of Manassas Park Police Department on May 8, 2002.  Chief Fenner briefly left Virginia and went to Las Vegas, Nevada where he became the Head of Security for Wayne Newton, also known as The Midnight Idol, Mr. Las Vegas, and Mr. Entertainment.

In his retirement, Chief Fenner was never a stranger to Manassas Park.  You could always find him dining with friends and family at local establishments, always with a smile on his face, and would stop a conversation in mid-sentence to shake hands with friends that walked by.  Chief Fenner would later move to Lake Anna and opened an Ice Cream Shop nearby where you were always welcomed to get an ice cream cone and enjoy candid conversations.

Chief Fenner, on behalf of the current and retired men and women of the Manassas Park Police Department, you dedicated your entire life to public safety and selflessly served the citizens of Manassas Park.  Rest easy Chief, we will take the watch from here.

Funeral arrangements will be released at a later date.

This press release was produced by Manassas Park Police Department. The views expressed here are the author’s own.