Thomas Edward Fogarty's Obituary
Thomas Edward Fogarty, 92, passed away peacefully on June 17, 2025, in Riverside, California.
Born on August 9, 1932, Tom dedicated his life to service, family, and country. He proudly served in the United States Air Force for 30 years, enlisting in 1953. During his distinguished military career, Tom was stationed around the world, including Greece, Greenland, Florida, Alabama, Oklahoma, Massachusetts, Utah, and at Norton Air Force Base in San Bernardino, California.
From November 1966 to December 1967, he bravely served a tour of duty in Vietnam, where he crewed C-130 and C-7 Caribou aircraft on numerous dangerous missions into enemy territory. Later in his career, he served as a flight engineer aboard the C-141, traveling to destinations across the globe. Tom retired in 1983 at the highest enlisted rank of Chief Master Sergeant, a testament to his leadership, commitment, and excellence in service.
Following his retirement from the Air Force, Tom continued his work in aviation, employed by Lockheed-Martin for four years and later as a plane mechanic for UPS at Ontario International Airport for eight years.
He remained active in the aviation community as a docent at the Norton Air Force Base Museum and contributed to aircraft restoration projects at the March Air Force Base Air Museum.
Tom was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joan (2013), his son Michael (2007), and his parents, Frank and Mary Fogarty.
He is survived by his children, Patrick, Cheryl, and Kevin; six grandchildren (four boys and two girls); and one great-granddaughter and his younger sister Rosemary.
Tom found joy in boating, pheasant hunting, fishing, and spending time at family gatherings. He was a devoted husband, proud father, and cherished grandfather who will be remembered for his strength, humility, and enduring patriotism.
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