Obituary of George Edward Fitzsimmons

George Fitzsimmons of Calgary passed away on Thursday, April 16, 2009 at the age of 91 years. George was born on April 19, 1917 in Whitehaven, England, in St. Begh’s parish to James and Roselean Fitzsimmons. In 1926 he emigrated to Canada with his mother and three sisters, his father having gone ahead two years earlier to seek work. They settled in Calgary where three more siblings were born. George attended Sacred Heart School, Saint Mary’s High School and was a lifelong parishioner at Sacred Heart Catholic Church where he served as an usher for 45 years. On June 21, 1941 he married Anne Ronak and together they raised three children. He worked 27 years for the T. Eaton Co. and later for the Provincial Department of Public Works. George’s passions were music and art. He was the longest performing member of the CFCN Oldtimers radio show, on which he played for 44 years. He also played with many local bands from age 12 continuing into his late 80’s. Painting landscapes was another of his accomplishments. His style was strongly influenced by Roland Gissing whom he knew personally. Over the years he has created over 400 landscapes. George was a loving father and husband, and will be fondly and lovingly remembered by his children: Jim (Debbie), Rosanne (Ed), Peg (Keith); his grandchildren Becky (Ryan), Fraser (Niamh), Geoff (Meghan), and Patrick; also great granddaughter Peyton. George is also survived by three sisters: Margaret, Elizabeth (Tom), Agnes (John); and a brother Allen (Dolores). George was predeceased by Anne, his wife of almost 65 years, infant son Patrick Francis, sister May and brother Jim. The family extends their heartfelt thanks to all the staff at Wentworth Manor for the compassion and care shown to George during his three year stay there. Relatives and friends are invited to Prayers and Tributes at Sacred Heart Catholic Church (1307 – 14th Street S.W.) on Wednesday, April 22, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be Concelebrated at Sacred Heart Catholic Church (1307 – 14th Street S.W.) on Thursday, April 23, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. Graveside Service to follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. In living memory of George Fitzsimmons, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Crowfoot Chapel, 82 CROWFOOT CIRCLE N.W. Telephone: (403) 241-0044.