Norman Alan Wetzel

Norman was born in Rochester, New York to Robert and Viola Wetzel on April 17, 1926. He went to school at Ridge High School in Rochester, New York. He was married to his beloved wife Dorothy for 62 years. He graduated from the “College of Hard Knocks”. Norman was the President and owner of Hudson Valley Auto Appraisers in Newburgh, New York, expanding offices to Albany, Vermont and Orlando, Florida, which he and Dorothy managed for 40 years. He was also a two time President for IADA, a national automobile damage appraiser trade association. At one point, he began appraising steel bumper damages for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in Washington DC, to determine if the impact was 5 mph or over 15 mph. It was the infancy stage of collision damage assessments and the national human safety seat belt studies, which still exists today.

Norman was a veteran of World War II, and served in the United States Army. He was deployed as part of the Asian-Pacific Initiative. Norman was part of the Mule Brigade, hauling 75 mm Howitzers up into the mountains of the Philippines as a defense against the Japanese.

Norman loved and received numerous golf trophies from the Powelton Club in Newburgh. He was a licensed auto damage appraiser in New York. Norman, at one time, volunteered for Hospice and Meals on Wheels. He also received numerous recognitions for his leadership in the automobile associations of IADA and ICAR. Norman also participated in the Save the Canals Association in Tampa. He was a member of the Wesely Memorial United Methodist Church for thirty years, and performed many functions there. Norman was also a member of the local VFW and American Legions chapters.

Norman's neighbors and aide have been a constant source of help, support, and comfort which enabled him to stay in his home, and give him the quality of life he deserved. He was a force that is ever present. He loved his garden, sunflowers and anything that would grow. His neighbors were like family to him and his smile will be missed.

Norman is survived by his son, Thomas S. Wetzel (Sandra) of Newburgh, New York; daughter, Patricia A. Preville of Clifton Park, New York; and James A. Wetzel of Tampa, Florida; sister, Linda Wetzel of Rochester, New York; ten grandchildren; and nine great-grand children.

His wife, Dorothy M. Wetzel pre-deceased him in 2012. Patricia and James were at his side when he departed to the greatest adventure.

The family of Norman Wetzel wishes to extend their sincerest thanks to his many neighbors in the Bay Crest community, his dearest care taker(s), and Aging Care Advocates, all, who all have been instrumental with his comfort and care. Whether it was navigating every day tasks, or bringing in the dogs, it was truly a gift. We could not have done it without you, and are so appreciative.