Thursday, April 18, 2024
Melvin "Tom" Fennell, 81, passed away on Tuesday, November 12, 2019 after a long fought illness. Born in Pennsylvania, Tom moved his family to Texas as soon as he could....'cause that's the place he wanted to settle down and let the "cowboy" in him let loose! Always the musician, always the comedian and most admired about him was his downright charismatic personality and unforgettable laugh!
Working for American Airlines for almost 30 years, his unique skills in arbitration were revealed as he rose to Union Executive levels and became a key representative between the Mechanic's Union and AA. Long after retiring, he was often called upon for advice on complicated bargaining issues with AA and the Union.
A staunch patriot, Tom served two stints in the Marine Corps which led him to take a deep interest in the American Legion. He diligently served at the American Legion Post 379 in Bedford for years before moving to Granbury and dedicating his time to Post
491. Post 491 became his home away from home. His love and respect for veterans became his life work. His attitude and dedication helped grow the Granbury Post into a well-respected example for other American Legions in Texas! He was a Commander many times over in Granbury to the point he was honorably given a permanent title of 1st Vice Commander! He spent his final work day at the Legion after years of service before his illness recently gave him no choice.
The extent of his community spirit was revealed to his family when gathering material for a final goodbye and discovered stacks of honors bestowed upon him for his efforts over many years of activity helping his fellow veterans and community. A rare individual, Tom will be sorely missed by countless people he has helped on his way in this life.
Missing him most will be his daughters, Kelly Sue Lozano of Irving, TX and Tracey Lee Ayres and husband Phil of Coppell, TX. Also his grandchildren, Lacey Rivas, Taylor, Avery and Hailey Ayres and Great Grandchildren, Cayci Abigail Vehon and William A. Vehon III of Flower Mound, TX.
Preceded in death by his wife, Virginia, parents, Genevieve and Blair Fennell, brothers Dail, and Blair and sister Eileen Fennell. Out of a family of 13 children, the surviving brothers include, Jim, Bob, Lanny, LeRoy, Larry and Ron as well as sisters Janice Ferment, Linda Massey and Diana Steines.
A Service will be held on Saturday, November 16 at 2pm at Wiley Funeral Home in Granbury, TX followed immediately by a Celebration of Tom's life at the Granbury American Legion located at 3409 Davis Road. Tom himself will be your Host and Entertainer for his requested "party"through videos of his musical abilities, sprinkled with his well -known humor. Come join us as he offers a final farewell in typical "Tom" fashion as he exits LIFE here, for LIFE ETERNAL, there!
