James X Fitzsimmons

James X. Fitzsimmons known affectionately as Jim or "Peck" entered eternal rest at Abington Manor in his 100th year after a long and wonderful life. Jim was loved by many; he had a gift for making everyone around him feel special.

Born in West Avoca, PA, he was the son of the late Walter A. and Margaret (Ryan) Fitzsimmons. Jim attended St. Mary's School in Avoca and Duryea High School. In 1943, he joined the U.S. Navy serving proudly as a Shipfitter during the Second World War. He was awarded the Pacific Campaign Medal, the American Campaign Medal, and the WWII Victory Medal.

After the war in 1946, Jim resumed his plumbing and heating apprenticeship under his father, ultimately becoming a Master Plumber. He enjoyed a career as Supervisor of Plumbing and Heating at the "beautiful" Mount Airy Lodge in the Poconos, keeping America's premier honeymoon resort running smoothly for 30 years until its closing in 2001. Headliners such as Bob Hope, Tony Bennett, and Paul Anka regularly performed in the 2,000-seat Crystal Room, where Jim always had a reserved table, a testament to the owner's respect for his expertise and friendship.

In retirement, Jim returned to the Endless Mountains and the shores of Lake Carey, where he had spent summers since childhood. He first traveled there by horse and buggy with his grandparents, the Ryans, and he could "swim like a polliwog," according to his eldest sister, Mary. Lake life was forever in his blood.

Though a man of few words, Jim's devotion to family and friends was boundless. He was ever ready with a helping hand, a listening ear, and a sharp-witted remark. His generosity, kindness, and quiet wisdom flowed from his deep Christian faith. Jim was a member of Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church in Tunkhannock.

Jim was predeceased by his beloved wife, Jeanne (Swickel) Fitzsimmons; his brother, John P. Fitzsimmons; his sisters, Mary G. Williams and Ann Sharp; his son-in-law, J. Burkhardt Beale; his nephew, Charles W. Williams III; and his niece, Margaret M. Sharp.

Jim is survived by his devoted daughters, Patricia R. Fitzsimmons of Woodbridge, VA, and Michele X. Fitzsimmons of Lake Carey, PA; his loving granddaughter, Heather C. (Alan) Hall of Burke, VA; and two dutiful great-grandsons, Aidan P. Hall and Padraig R. Hall. He is also survived by nephews Burton J. Sharp, James X. Sharp, Robert D. Sharp, Ryan L. Williams, Jack J. Redington, Robert J. Redington, and James R. Redington; nieces Mary M. Montemerlo and Mary K. Uliano; many great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins; and his best friend, John "Hoppy" McGlynn.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Thursday, July 24th, at Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church in Tunkhannock. Interment will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery in Avoca at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests donations to Hospice of the Sacred Heart, Moosic, PA (https://www.hospicesacredheart.org/donate).