This week’s Grave of the Week is Norman A. Fenley. Born February 25, 1934, he passed away on October 24, 1954, in the French Alps.
A graduate of Exeter Union High School, Norman joined the Air Force on February 18, 1953. He entered the Airplane and Engine Mechanic’s School at Sheppard Air Force Base in May of that year. At the time of his passing, he was an Airman 2nd Class with the 514th Fighter Interceptor Squad. He was sent overseas in March of 1954.
Fenley was on furlough in Rome and was on his way back to England when the C47 he was “hitching” a ride in crashed in the French Alps. All 21 on board the plane perished. The hunt for the wreckage was hindered by weather and location. Searchers were not able to reach the wreckage until October 30.
Fenley was buried in Exeter with full military rites. He was survived by his parents, three brothers, and two sisters.
Included in this post are pictures posted on Ancestry.com from Norman’s funeral.
Message if you know anyone who should be featured on Grave of the Week. Please include any information about the person’s life and where the grave is located.
Please continue to like, share, and follow the Exeter Public Cemetery District and thank you to Exeter Chamber of Commerce, Exeter Kiwanis, Kiwanis Club Of Farmersville, Kiwanis Club Of Farmersville, Kiwanis of Woodlake, The Sun-Gazette Newspaper, Exeter Lions Club for sharing.