Wendell Aaron Fleener Obituary (1933 - 2023)

Wendell Aaron Fleener Grapeview, Washington August 9, 1933 - September 16, 2023 Beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, Wendell Aaron Fleener, went to join his beloved wife Phyllis and to be with his Savior and Lord on September 16th. He was born August 9th, 1933 to Fritch Aaron and Mary Naomi Fleener in Perryton, Texas. He spent much of his early years in Brown County, Indiana. In the sixth grade he moved to Flatrock, Indiana where his father had a feedmill. He graduated from Flatrock High School in 1952. In June of 1953 he enlisted in the United States Air Force and was a member of the 3560th Student Squadron at Webb Air Force Base in Texas where he learned to fly F86, Saber Jet. Flying would continue to be a lifelong passion. He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant, and pursued his interest in flight, earning a degree in aeronautical engineering from Purdue University in 1959. He married Phyllis Ann Haehl of Shelbyville, Indiana on August 11th, 1957. They moved to Washington in 1959 where he had a 36 year career at Boeing. They made homes on Vashon, in Normandy Park and in Grapeview. Each home was full of love, faith, wonderful books, music, exploring nature, fun and laughter in which they raised their family. In retirement he enjoyed flying, sailing, woodworking, gardening and travelling to all seven continents. He was proceeded in death by his wife of 56 years, Phyllis Ann. He is survived by his children Tessie Fleener, Tammie Rabura (Chuck), Nancy Fleener, Nate Fleener (Hillary), grandchildren Rob (Tasha), Gaven (Rory), Erika (Austin), Phyll (Kyle), Martha, Elliott and Dexter, his great-grandsons Wilder and Indy, his sisters, Judy Stevenson and Maryleah Fleener, and many nieces, nephews and friends. Donations in lieu of flowers may be sent to The Museum of Flight's restoration fund, 9404 East Marginal Way South, Seattle WA 98108-4097 A memorial service will be held on Saturday November 4th, at 11 AM at Southminster Presbyterian Church, 19834 8th Ave South, Des Moines, WA 98148 Inurnment: Haven of Rest, Gig Harbor You may sign an online memorial at havenrest.com