John J. Fitzgerald

John James Fitzgerald (Jack), 79, of Harwich, MA, formerly of Chatham, passed away in the comfort of his home on Monday, February 1, surrounded by his loving family. Born on August 23, 1941 in Norwood, MA to Captain John James and Marion R. (Lyons) Fitzgerald, Jack lived his life on his own terms and dedicated to his family. The oldest of four children, Jack grew up in Roslindale, MA and began his life's journey as a decorated Marine. Once out of the service, Jack earned his bachelor's degree at the Wentworth Institute of Technology.

Throughout his life, Jack worked in the construction industry as a superintendent for the lead innovators of his field. His career focused on the construction of buildings for the high tech industry ranging from Raytheon, where the Patriot Missile was designed and is housed all the way to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia where he lead the construction of a prince's compound.

Despite his many travels during his career, Jack chose to establish his home on the cape so that he could be closest to the thing he loved most, the ocean. His father was the captain of the Pendleton, an oil tanker that split in half and went down off the coast of Chatham in 1952, when Jack was just 10 years old. The instilled love of the water became an integral part of his life's happiness. Lobstering, shell fishing, fishing for striped bass and boating were among his true joys. He loved nothing more than spending time with his son on the water sharing in the nautical activities that meant the world to him. Jack's only other true dedication was to his beloved dogs. His love for the many canine companions he had throughout his life were held very near and dear to his heart and brought him much joy.

Jack's memory will be cherished and kept alive by his wife of 55 years, Gail Ann (Kilroy) Fitzgerald; son, John James Fitzgerald IV and his wife Molly MacGregor of Chatham; daughter, Jacquelyn Fitzgerald of Haverhill, MA and grandsons: John James Fitzgerald V, Quint, and Ian MacGregor Fitzgerald.

The family wishes to thank the VNA Hospice of Cape Cod for its thoughtful service and the kind, loving and compassionate care provided by a wonderful family friend Brenda Schofield, who made it possible for the end of life process to be carried out peacefully at his home and in the presence of his loved ones.

Services will be private. In lieu of flowers, if desired, memorial contributions can be made to the Harwich Fire Department Ambulance Fund, 183 Sisson Rd., Harwich, MA 02645. For online condolences, please visit www.nickersonfunerals.com.