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Nelson L. Hethrington, 76, a lifelong Norwalker and a veteran of the Korean War and the Vietnam War, died March 6 after a battle with Parkinson's disease.
Hethrington was born at his parents' Reed Street home and attended Norwalk schools. In 1953, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he served in the Submarine Service during the Korean and Vietnam wars. He rose to the rank of chief petty officer, the most significant promotion within the enlisted naval ranks, and was awarded many distinguished service awards and meritorious unit commendations. His Navy assignments took him from San Diego to Singapore, working aboard the USS Grampus, USS Archerfish, USS Barbel, USS Grayback and USS Blue Gill.
After 23 years of service to his country, Hethrington received an honorable discharge in 1976. He then worked in sales in several industries, including real estate, boats and engineering.
Hethrington is survived by his wife, Harriet Haffner Hethrington, whom he married in September 1989. They shared a love of golf, movies, dining out and being with their family, and spent much of the past 20 years traveling. They also enjoyed spending their winters at their home in Boynton Beach, Fla.
Hethrington is also survived by two stepdaughters, Debra Haffner and Jodi Wallace, both of Norwalk; and four grandchildren. He was predeceased by his brother, Randall; and his parents, Patrick and Emelda Hethrington.
Donations may be made in Hethrington's name to Hospice of Palm Beach County, 5300 East Ave., West Palm Beach, FL 33405 or to the Parkinson's Disease Foundation.
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