Obituary of John H Fitzsimmons

Orrington - John H. "Sonny" Fitzsimmons, Jr., 70, passed away peacefully May 20th at his home with his loving wife, Mildred "Chickie" and their family by his side. John was born February 27, 1945 on Campobello Island, Canada to John H. Fitzsimmons and Elizabeth A. Crosby Fitzsimmons. John grew up on Campobello Island, Canada and worked in the local sardine factory as a young man where he learned the welding trade from a German co-worker who saw his cleverness and ingenuity. John moved to Maine in 1970 and worked for 15 years as maintenance welder at Crosby Laughlin Group. In 1985, he married the love of his life, Mildred, and together they moved to Ellsworth where he worked for Harold MacQuinn for 9 years as head welder until his heart condition retired him in 1995. He was gifted at welding and fabrication and many sought his skill and expertise for years after. John was always a loving and kind husband, father and grandfather. He loved spending time with his wife and many grandchildren at Twin Brooks Campground where they camped for 17 years. He loved boating, fishing, swimming, singing, story-telling of Island life and making bon fires for all who visited. At times, he was the biggest kid around, challenging his grandchildren and anyone else to pogo stick, hula hooping or bubble blowing contests. John was a giving, loving and patient man, always willing to help others. His heart and generosity was as big as the ocean. John was predeceased by his father, John H. Fitzsimmons of Canada; sister, Eva Mitchell of Canada and son, Eugene D. Fitzsimmons of Portland. He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Mildred "Chickie" Williams Fitzsimmons of Orrington; his mother, Elizabeth A. Fitzsimmons of Canada; ten children and step-children and their spouses, Mike (Doris) Fitzsimmons of Portland, Brenda (Donnie) Fitzsimmons of Otis, Diana (Jody) Frederick of Ellsworth, Andy Fitzsimmons of Surry , Robert (Michelle) Labbe of Gorham, Tammy (Ross) Bellino of Standish, Tracey (Maureen) Minervino of Bucksport, Jean (Brian) Minervino of Portland, Thomas Minervino and Samuel Minervino of Portland; 48 grandchildren and 28 great grandchildren; sister, Mary (Clifford) Swelin of Ottowa Canada; brother Carleton (Elaine) Fitzsimmons of Lubec; sisters-in-law Barbara (Joe) Foster, Judy (Jack) Bowden, Sheila (Dale) Averill and Bonnie (Dick) Leighton; and several nieces and nephews; and his dearest friend Clair (Priscilla) Heal of Naples. Per his wishes, there will be no funeral services. A celebration of his life will be held in the summer to honor his passion for camping, singing and telling stories by the bonfire. In lieu of flowers, he would ask that you spend time with your children and grandchildren, friends and family, and make loving memories to cherish now and always.