David M. Fogarty

David M. Fogarty, Ret. USAF, age 91 of Belle Plaine, died on Monday, May 14, 2012 at the Lutheran Home in Belle Plaine. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 AM on Friday, May 18, 2012 at Our Lady of the Prairie Catholic Church, Fr. Michael Kaluza will officiate. Visitation will be on Thursday from 4:00-8:00 PM at the Kolden Funeral Home in Belle Plaine and continue one hour prior to the service at church on Friday. Interment will be in the Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery. David was born to Michael and Elizabeth (Brown) Fogarty on the family farm in rural Belle Plaine on February 13, 1921. He attended high school in Belle Plaine. Upon graduation he enlisted in what was then known as the Civilian Conservation Corps, which for him included clearing and reforestation projects in northern Minnesota. This was temporary as he clearly felt he was needed in the service of his country. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Corps, subsequently the U.S. Air Force in 1942. After training, he received the rank of 2nd Lieutenant. He was immediately sent to the European Theatre. He was stationed in England serving in the U.S. Eighth Air Force. He piloted in excess of the required thirty missions in a B-24 Bomber, also known as the Liberator over enemy territory. He received several citations for "extraordinary achievement and skill" on the many missions. Among the awards, twice the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Air Medal, the Bronze Medal and others. Part of David's military career was included in the book Never Forgotten, stories by Scott County, MN, WWII Veterans. Upon discharge, he had the opportunity to purchase his Uncle's farm and began farming, perhaps fulfilling a long hoped for dream. After retirement, David and Amie, his wife, purchased a lake home on Green Lake in Spicer, MN where they spent many summers. David enjoyed travelling, watching sports of all kinds and playing cards. He was a long time member of the VFW Post in Belle Plaine, having been past Commander. David is survived by his wife, Amie of Belle Plaine, Daughter, Sheral (James) Colville of Dewey, AZ, Grandchildren, Nicol (Aaron) Ashcroft, James (Cassie) Colville, John Colville, Great Grandchildren, Logan Colville, Davis Colville, Brother, Leonard (Pat) Fogarty of Belle Plaine, Many Nieces and Nephews. Memorials may be sent to OLP Building Fund or donor's choice.