James P. Fitzgerald

James (Jim) P. Fitzgerald, a man defined by his sharp intellect, enduring faith, and quiet kindness, passed away peacefully on July 20, 2025. Born in Little Falls, New York, on November 5, 1939, to James Edward and Anne Fitzgerald, Jim's life was one of integrity and accomplishment.

Growing up in Little Falls, Jim was a brilliant student, graduating as valedictorian of the Little Falls High School Class of 1957. A dedicated Boy Scout, he earned the rank of Eagle Scout at the remarkable age of 13. He continued his education at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), where he earned a degree in electrical engineering in 1961, all while competing on the varsity wrestling team.

After marrying Sharon Shepard in 1961, the couple moved to California, where Jim launched a distinguished career with Lockheed Aircraft Corporation. For over three decades, he served in flight test, contributing to a number of groundbreaking aircraft, including the F-104, SR-71, L-1011, F-117, U-2, and ES-3A, before his retirement in 1994.

In 1996, Jim and Sharon embraced a new chapter in Waldport, Oregon. Here, Jim indulged his passions for photography, train history, and dedicated volunteering. A man of deep faith, he was a pillar of St. Anthony Catholic Church and a devoted volunteer with the Oregon Rail Heritage Foundation, particularly enjoying the thrill of assisting with their excursion runs.

Known for his humble realism and sharp wit, Jim once said he didn't expect to be "swooped directly into the arms of his Savior," but rather anticipated spending "a little time in Purgatory." The family asks that you please remember him in your prayers and consider offering a Mass for the repose of his soul.

Jim's legacy lives on through his daughters, Lisa Fitzgerald and Laura Alameda; sister, Nan Mosher; grandchildren, Nicole Burke, Austin, and Taylor Alameda; and great-granddaughter, Braelynn Burke. He is reunited with his beloved wife, Sharon, who preceded him in death.

He will be laid to rest on September 12, 2025, at St. Mary of Guadalupe, 1520 N 65th Ave., Ridgefield, WA 98642-7726.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jim's memory to the Oregon Rail Heritage Center (https://orhf.org/ or by mail to ORHF, PO Box 42443, Portland, OR 97242) to honor his lifelong love of trains and commitment to preservation and education.

Funeral Mass Hymns

Processional: "Here I Am, Lord"

Offertory: "Come to Me"

Communion: "Song of Farewell"

Recessional: "On Eagle's Wings"

"Well done, good and faithful servant." - Matthew 25:23