Victor R. Fitzsimmons

Age 80, passed away at his home on May 10, 2024, surrounded by love and faith. He was born in Kalamazoo, MI, on August 7, 1943, the son of the late Wallace and Helen (Salpatrick) Fitzsimmons. Victor was a kind, dedicated and faithful man who always worked to improve the lives of those around him. He enlisted in the US Navy and served on USS Springfield and Wallace L. Lind, reaching the rank of 3rd Class Petty Officer. After being honorably discharged, he returned to make Southwest Michigan his home and in 1968 married the love of his life Patricia J. (Papierz) Fitzsimmons. They settled in Portage and began to raise a family. Victor worked hard to support his family. He was a gifted mechanic and could fix anything with a motor. Throughout his life he worked for the Kalamazoo Water Department, General Motors in Constantine and retired from American Axle in Three Rivers as an instrument repairman. In his free time, Victor loved spending time outdoors hunting, fishing and camping, sitting on the front porch feeding local wildlife or could be found working on his latest project in the garage which was always kept meticulous. He was also a strong supporter of Patricia's daycare and loved all of the children that would be at the home. He had a strong faith in the Lord and was a long-time member of Texas Corners Bible Church where his smile and warmth will be missed. Above all Victor loved his family, was especially fond of his grandson Josh and his many friends. Victor leaves behind the memory of a life well lived and he will be missed. He is survived by his wife Patricia; son, Victor Jr.; grandson, Josh (Gabrielle) Roberts; siblings, Beverly Stewart, William (Maryanne) Fitzsimmons, Karen Deau, Mary (Pastor Dave) Thompson; many cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. He was also preceded in passing by his daughter, Theresa M. Roberts; siblings, James Fitzsimmons, Virginia Rantz and Scott Stanley. A memorial service to honor his life will be held on Friday, May 31, 2024, beginning at 11:00 a.m., at Texas Corners Bible Church, 7780 S. 8th St. Kalamazoo, MI 49009, with Pastor David Thompson officiating. The family will receive friends at the church beginning at 10:00 a.m., one hour prior to the service. Interment will be at Ft. Custer National Cemetery on Friday, May 31, 2024, at 3:00 p.m., (please arrive in the cemetery assembly area at 2:45 p.m.). Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Shriners Children's Hospital or Tunnel to Towers, c/o the funeral home. Family and friends may share a condolence message online at www.joldersma-klein.com.