Everett Wells

Everett B. Wells, Jr., 94, passed away on Monday, September 22, 2014 following a brief illness.

He was born in Norwich on August 27, 1920, the son of Everett B. Wells and Florence Skillman Wells. Everett graduated from Norwich High School in 1937 and from Cornell University in 1941 with a bachelor’s degree. He was the oldest graduate to attend the Centennial All Class Reunion in July of this year.

Everett was a veteran of World War II, having entered the Army Air Corps in August of 1942 and was a Captain in the 21st Weather Squadron, serving in the Rhineland, Central Europe Air Offensive. He received the American Campaign Medal, European African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, World War II Victory Medal and the Meritorious Service Unit Medal.

After serving his country, Everett returned home to Norwich where he was a general contractor for many years, building many homes in and around Norwich, including all but one of the houses on Sharon Drive. Everett’s love of flying led him to pursue licenses as an airplane pilot and instructor. He was a long time member of the Soaring Society of America. He enjoyed many hours soaring over upstate New York and the mountains of Colorado. When in his 70’s, Everett went hang gliding, much to his wife’s dismay.

On December 20, 1942, Everett was united in marriage to Nina S. Aldrich, who predeceased him on April 14, 2012, after almost 70 years of marriage. Everett is survived by his children, Jacqueline W. Raaymakers, Everett B. (Brad) Wells (Rhonda), Kathy E. Wells and Daniel S. Wells (Nancy); his grandchildren, Sarah Eisenhoff, Sharon Glidden, Joshua Wells and Aaron Wells and great grandchildren, Ashley, Emma, Zoey and Heather. He is also survived by his special “other daughter”, Mickie Conklin and nieces and nephew, Kay Zaia, Wanda Kuhn and Wilmer Wells, Jr. Everett was predeceased by his parents and his brother, Wilmer S. Wells.

A memorial service for Everett will be held on Thursday, October 9, 2014 at 10:00 am at Emmanuel Episcopal Church with Father Charles Taylor officiating. Following interment with military honors in Mt. Hope Cemetery, there will be a reception for family and friends at the Parish Hall, Emmanuel Episcopal Church.