May 10, 1924—Oct. 31, 2009

Aufanio V. “Al” Fichera, of Buffalo, a retired accountant and avid horseman who was honored for bravery during World War II, died Saturday in Sisters Hospital after a brief illness. He was 85.

Born in Buffalo, he was a 1942 graduate of Grover Cleveland High School. He served in the Navy during World War II, attaining the rank of pharmacist’s mate second class and earning a Bronze Star after dragging three wounded men to safety during the Battle of Iwo Jima.

He attended Bryant&Stratton Business Institute and received a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Canisius College, studying under the GI Bill.

Mr. Fichera worked for Curtiss- Wright for more than 40 years, beginning as a tube bender in the 1940s and retiring as an accountant in 1987.

He enjoyed horseback riding and owned thoroughbred racehorses. He also enjoyed golfing and playing cards.

Surviving is a sister, Josephine.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 9:30 a. m. Friday in Holy Cross Catholic Church, Maryland and Seventh streets.