James W. Fitzpatrick, Jr.

Jim was born on March 20th, 1929, to James and Sarah (White) Fitzpatrick, Sr. He was raised in Marquette and graduated from Graveraet High School. He served in the US Army during WWII in Japan, was honorably discharged and returned to Marquette.

He continued his education attending Western Michigan College, graduating with a machinist degree and Chicago Tech College with a degree in drafting.

Jim worked with his father at The Mining Journal as a printer’s apprentice.

He married, Dolores (Brisson) and together they established a home and raised their family in Marquette. Jim worked for the former Cliffs Dow and served as their union representative. He then transferred to the Empire Mine and worked there until his retirement.

Jim spent his free time fishing with his father and spending precious time with his family. He loved gardening, woodworking and restoring antiques.

Family cook-outs and time with his family were our father’s happiest times, including his animals, both wild and domestic that he lovingly cared for.

He was a member of St. Louis the King Catholic Church. His faith and personal relationship with God was truly inspiring and a great comfort for him.

Jim is survived by daughters, Colleen Fortin-Pascoe and Cynthia (Neil) Michelson-Hayward; grandchildren, Amber Pascoe, Jill (Jason) Cooke, Colleen (Rachael) Michelson, James, Michelson, Mike (Erin) Michelson, Bree (Koutaiba) Spartali, Jerod Fitzpatrick, Jamee Fitzpatrick, Tiffany Fitzpatrick, Adam Fitzpatrick, Robert Quinnel/Mills and Aaron Hayward; 13 great-grandchildren and two great-great- grandchildren; sister, Joan Blemberg; sister-in-law, Maxine Wirtanen; daughter-in-law, Carol Fitzpatrick; and numerous nieces & nephews.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Dolores; son, James (Skippy); brothers, Donald and Glenn; son-in-law, Allen Fortin, Sr.; grandsons, Allen Fortin, Jr. and Jared Hayward; granddaughter, Staci Fortin; and great-granddaughter, Alyssa Jo Anderson, who was the light of his life.

Dad, you left us with wisdom and love for all, you will forever be in our broken hearts. We miss and love you, fly high dad.

A graveside service with military honors will be held in the spring at Holy Cross Cemetery followed by a celebration of Jim’s life.

Jim’s family would like to thank niece, Shelley Wirtanen, great-grandson, Erik Grawien, Marquette County Medical Care Facility staff, Becky, Vanessa, Michelle, Jeremy & Lake Superior Life Care & Hospice staff, especially, Jamie for the care they provided.

Canale-Tonella Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting the family, where memories may be shared at canalefuneral.com.