James Fitzgibbon Jr.

SOUTH HADLEY: Jim Fitzgibbon, 60, died peacefully on April 3 at the Holyoke Medical Center surrounded by his loving family. Born in Holyoke to the late James J and Barbara (Lucey) Fitzgibbon, he graduated from Holyoke High School, attended St. Michael's College and later Anna Maria College, where he obtained a master's degree in criminal justice. Jim loved baseball and was a standout pitcher at the high school, Babe Ruth and legion levels, receiving numerous honors and accolades. Later, he enjoyed attending his children's many sporting events. Jim retired in 2009 after a thirty-six year career with the Massachusetts State Police having proudly followed in the footsteps of his father. Jim lived life large and will be fondly remembered as a dedicated family man and a loyal friend. During his retirement, Jim enjoyed fishing and vacationing on Cape Cod. Jim is survived by the love of his life, wife, Sue (Ross) Fitzgibbon and their two children, whom he cherished, James J Fitzgibbon, III and his wife, Jane, of Easthampton and Kara Fitzgibbon of Boston. He is also survived by brothers Barry Fitzgibbon and his wife Kathy of Milford, MA and Kevin Fitzgibbon of South Hadley and a sister Debbie Chieco, also of South Hadley. He leaves a sister-in-law Patricia Ross of South Hadley, a brother-in-law, George Ross of Holyoke and his loving nieces and nephews, Andy Ross and Caitlin Ross, both of Boston, Hallie (Ross) DiMasi (Mike) of CT, Megan Ross of New York, Barry Fitzgibbon, Jr. of CT, Jonathan Fitzgibbon of Milford, MA, and Mike and Brian Chieco of South Hadley. Jimmy worked hard, played hard and loved hard and he leaves his family and countless number of friends with so many memories of a man who lived life to its fullest. Friends are asked to meet directly at Our Lady of the Cross Church, 23 Sycamore Street, Holyoke for a Mass of Christian Burial to be held on Monday, April 8, 2013 at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow in Notre Dame Cemetery, South Hadley. Calling hours will be held Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Barry J. Farrell Funeral Home, 2049 Northampton Street, Holyoke, MA. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Jim to The Holyoke Soldiers Home, 110 Cherry Street, Holyoke, MA 01040.