Paul Lawrance Fitzsimon

Paul Lawrance FitzSimon, 68, born in McAllen, Texas, but most recently residing in Idaho, passed away on November 20, 2024, after a courageous battle with stage four neuroendocrine tumor (NET) cancer, shortly after beginning chemotherapy treatment.

Paul was born on December 20, 1955, to Pat and Ann FitzSimon. Growing up in a lively household with one brother, John, and four sisters, Noma, Kathy, Jeannie and Laura, Paul developed a strong sense of family and community that would define his life.

Paul was married to Angie, his high school sweetheart, from 1975 to 1983, and together they began his legacy with their children, Robyn, Paul Jr. (PJ), and April. In 1984, he married Linda, and during their time together until 1997, they welcomed Sara, Dawn, Benjamin, Aaron, and Joseph into the family. In 1999, Paul found love again with Debbie, and their marriage, which lasted until 2019, completed his family with the additions of Tristan, Kendal, Sara, and Alex, further enriching his legacy of love.

Paul’s life was defined by his multifaceted skills and his deep desire to serve others. A proud Marine, skilled mechanic, EMT, volunteer firefighter, and versatile handyman, he was truly a jack of all trades. Paul was also an avid photographer, devoted genealogist, and talented woodworker who cherished the outdoors through camping and hiking. He eagerly lent a hand wherever it was needed, gaining a reputation for resourcefulness and an uncanny ability to build or repair anything—from vintage vehicles to the climbing tower at Island Park Scout Camp.

A lifelong participant in the Boy Scouts of America (BSA), Paul achieved the rank of Life Scout and was a member of the Order of the Arrow. His dedication to the program spanned decades, sharing his love of the outdoors and mentoring youth at scout camps. Paul served the Scouts as an adult, earning both the Silver Beaver, Vigil Honor, and Founders Awards for his selfless contributions. His service-oriented nature, joy in teaching others, and enduring impact on countless lives will be fondly remembered.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Pat and Ann FitzSimon; his sister, Kathy Striffler; and his daughter, Dawn Marie FitzSimon.

He is survived by his four siblings: John “Jack” FitzSimon III (Lois), Noma Kessie, Jeannie Beyt (Steve) and Laura Keller (James); his twelve children: Robyn Alexander (Daniel), Paul FitzSimon Jr. (Stephanie), April FitzSimon, Sara Lints (Derek), Benjamin FitzSimon (Whit), Aaron FitzSimon (Britney), Joseph FitzSimon, Tristan Deighton, Kendal Deighton (Bridget), Sara Hedstrom (Marcus), and Alex FitzSimon; as well as twenty-three beloved grandchildren who were a constant source of pride and joy in his life.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Boy Scouts of America in honor of Paul’s dedicated service and his love for nurturing the nation’s youth through the program. Donations can be made directly to the BSA by visiting their website at donations.scouting.org.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Southeast Idaho in mid-June 2025 in a setting that reflects Paul’s deep love of the outdoors. The details will be announced on Facebook once finalized.