Michael Joseph Fitzsimmons

1951 - 2024

Michael Joseph Fitzsimmons

May 25, 1951 - August 9, 2024

Michael Fitzsimmons, a musician known for his creativity, spirituality and generosity, died Friday 8/9/2024 following a brief illness. He was 73.

Fitzsimmons was a self-taught percussionist and performed in many venues.

He was a member of the Freedom Choir at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Omaha and with them, he performed at St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican. He was a musical ambassador for the Nebraska Arts Council and performed across Nebraska.

A composer, Fitzsimmons founded Dancing Man Music, releasing several recordings to critical acclaim. Over the years, he performed in several bands, including the Loose Brothers, Earth Star and Convention.

A South Omaha boy, Fitzsimmons lived most of his life in Omaha. In addition to music, other interests included restoring homes and golf, but his greatest passion was his relationships. He co-founded a men's support group that continues to meet more than 30 years later.

As a young man, Fitzsimmons went on a spiritual quest that led him to live among the monks a few weeks at New Melleray Abbey near Dubuque and communally in Arkansas. When he returned to Omaha, he helped manage the Siena Francis House. To better understand the needs of those staying at the shelter, he spent a month on the streets of Seattle, where dumpster diving and the kindness of others sustained him.

"Michael by his nature was a compassionate person," his wife, Nancy Dennis, said. "He was a gentle soul."

Fitzsimmons and Dennis spent 23 years together and devoted their time to their artistic talents, the outdoors, their marriage and their friendships. Dennis says the couple set aside Fridays as "date day" to keep their relationship strong.

"It was about listening and supporting, talking about our dreams," she said. "It's hard to take someone for granted when you have that."

Dennis said her husband tried not to take anyone for granted, even tipping the staff at fast food restaurants and buying a meal for someone panhandling on a street corner.

"He liked the human experience," she said. "He was always willing to respond to a need when he saw it."

Fitzsimmons grew up in a devout Catholic family near Spring Lake Park. In addition to his wife, Fitzsimmons is survived by two sisters, Theresa Fitzsimmons Richardson of Texas, and Mary Fitzsimmons Lewkowski of Indiana. He was preceded in death by his parents Jack and Bitsy and sister Cecilia.

A memorial service is set for 10 a.m. Saturday 8/17/2024 at Sacred Heart Church and a celebration of life will be held later this year.

Memorials can be sent to the Heart Ministry Center in Omaha.