Spring of 2013, Gene Fletcher retired as farrier due to health reasons. From that point on, he struggled with disability; in and out of the hospital and finally succumbed to cancer June 2, 2018. He was 38 years old and left behind a loving wife, Kate.
Gene served in the 26th MEU Marine Corp, Engineer Platoon in Afghanistan. After leaving the military, he attended Meredith Manor International Equestrian Center in Waverly, WV where he studied to be a farrier. Upon completing his training, he became a farrier in Pennsylvania, trained horses and gave riding lessons. He taught an on-line class through Alfred State College; part of the New York State University system.
He completed Entrepreneurship Boot Camp for Veterans at Syracuse University; a foundation dedicated to helping veterans network, set-up or expand their own businesses. In addition, Gene was involved with Hunters for Healing a group dedicated to helping disabled veterans.
Gene was the farrier at Ballentine’s Horse Heaven where I had the pleasure of meeting him. He shared his knowledge of horses with those who listened. Some people cross your path in life and are never forgotten; Gene will be remembered by many. He was a true horseman and will be missed greatly by his wife, family and friends. May his soul unite with the other riders of the wind and he rest in peace.
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