Wesley Allen Mason, age 93 of Norwood, NY went on to be with his Savior on October 1, 2014. He was surrounded by his family and friends who loved him well.
Wesley was born on September 16, 1921 in Waterbury, CT to the late William "Buck" and Marion Witham Mason. Wes was predeceased by his beloved wife Connie who passed just 23 days earlier. They married on July 29, 1952 cementing a bond that lasted 62 years. He was eager to be reunited with her.
Wesley was a leader of men and women- first in the army during World War II and then for Pratt and Whitney Aircraft in Southington, CT. He was an avid gardener, master card player, and fisherman. He was an inventor, a carpenter, and a horseman; a skilled engineer and father of five. Both Connie and Wes were glorious dancers.
He was a valuable member of two churches; the Plymouth Congregational Church in Plymouth, CT and the Knapp Station Community Church in Norwood, NY. Wesley and Connie relocated to St Lawrence County after retirement to realize their dream of owning a farm and draft horses. He is said to have been a great man and a charmer by many.
Wesley Mason served as Staff Sergeant in the 43rd Division, 169th Infantry, Service Co. and saw action in all four sectors of the South Pacific. The 43rd Division was one of the original National Guard Units to be activated in defense of the United States following the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Wesley, with his division, participated in pivotal battles for Guadalcanal; Munda Airfield and the Driniumour River on New Guinea; and Ipo Dam in the Philippines. He abhorred war and while he would not wish to be celebrated for his participation; his service is a source of pride for his family and a grateful nation.
He is predeceased by his son Michael Mason and siblings Howard, Richard, Jean, Bonnie and Arnold. He is survived by his sister Arlene Makiewicz and brother Brian Mason, and his children Marsha Jenkins of MD, Anne Vitelli of CT, Wesley Mason, Jr. of FL and Beth Mason of VA. He was the proud grandfather of two grandsons; Erin Sigouin and Jacob Boring and two granddaughters; Maria Sigouin and Jillian Boring, four great-grandsons, and two great, great-granddaughters.
Calling hours begin at noon on Saturday, October 4th, 2014 at Knapp Station Community Church with service to follow at 1 pm. Military rites with color guard and gun salute will follow. In lieu of flowers the family asks for donations to be made in Wesley's name to the Knapp Station Community Church Youth Camp Fund. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude for the care given to Wesley by his Pastor, Lee Sweeney, his faithful friends and aids; as well as the Hospice and Palliative Care of St Lawrence Valley.
Arrangements are entrusted to Hammill Funeral Home in Winthrop. Memories and condolences may be shared with Wesley's family at www.hammillfh.com.