Tech Sgt John M Fantaskey was killed in an airplane crash in the European arena on September 30, 1943, according to his parents Mr. and Mrs. John J Fantaskey. Tech Sgt Fantaskey, a native of Renovo, would have celebrated his 25th birthday. He enlisted in the service on August 7, 1942. In November, he was sent overseas. He was not able to get home after entering the service. He received his short training in this country at Keesler and Chanute Fields and was assigned to the Airways Communication Service and stationed in Scotland. He was a member of the 24th Regional Control Group and was ranked as a Technical Sergeant in the US Army.

His parents received a telegram from the War Department announcing his death. No other details were given about the fatal crash. His parents, not knowing of his death, mailed his Christmas packages on October 6, 1943.