Harry Clayton Fitzsimmons

May 14, 1935 – April 26, 2025

With heavy hearts and profound sadness, the family of Harry Clayton Fitzsimmons announces his peaceful passing at home with his loving family by his side. After suffering a silent heart attack in June, his health slowly declined, but we were blessed with ten more months of his love, humour, and presence.

Harry was the devoted husband of his high school sweetheart, Janet (McDonald). Together, they recently celebrated 68 wonderful years of marriage — a testament to a lifelong bond formed at Glebe Collegiate.

Born to the late Clayton and Marguerite Fitzsimmons, Harry was predeceased by his siblings Mardie Ann, Alec, and Lynda. He shared a special closeness with Lynda, accompanying her weekly to Good Companions, and he was dearly loved by his in-laws, the late Stroud and Lois McDonald.

A loving and generous father, Harry will be deeply missed by his children: Bruce Fitzsimmons (Donna), Beth Small (Ed), Anne Fitzsimmons, and Gail Roberge (Tim). His ten grandchildren — Stroud Fitzsimmons (Hailey); Kathryn Small, Jessica McNamara (Sean), Madeline Creighton (Dave), Jamie Small (Zoe); Andrew Nolan, Rachael Nolan (Julien); Ryan Roberge (Brianne), Scott Roberge (Heather), and Adam Roberge (Morgan) — adored their Grandad and they brought him immense joy and pride. In recent years, Harry was delighted to welcome eight great-grandchildren into the family.

Harry was a hardworking man and the third generation to lead the family business, C.A. Fitzsimmons & Co. Ltd, dealing in real estate, insurance, property management and appraisal. His vision and determination led to the construction of the “Fitzsimmons Building” at the corner of Bronson and Carling Avenue in Ottawa— a milestone celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by family, friends, employees, and business associates.

An avid sportsman, Harry loved playing and watching a variety of sports. He was a longtime member of the Ottawa Hunt and Golf Club, where he enjoyed countless rounds of golf with friends, and where he celebrated numerous family gatherings and business events. Thursday nights were reserved for basketball, where camaraderie and post-game visits to the pub — especially with his brother-in-law Grant McDonald — were a weekly highlight. Tennis, family ski days to Vorlage, and workouts at the YMCA — where he held a lifetime membership — all kept him active and vibrant. He was also a loyal fan, holding season tickets to both the Ottawa Rough Riders and Ottawa 67’s, generously sharing his love of the games with family.

Harry and Janet cherished their circle of lifelong friends known affectionately as the “Rat Pack,” with whom they shared many years of laughter and companionship.

In retirement, mornings began with breakfast at McDonald’s — a daily ritual with Janet that lasted over 30 years. Those simple mornings, filled with coffee, his favorite orange cranberry muffins, stories, and laughter, fostered deep and lasting friendships.

Cottage life at Lac-des-Îles and Hawk Lake brought Harry joy and purpose. Ever hands-on, he could always be found fixing, building, or tending to something. He welcomed nieces and nephews with open arms, always wanting them to feel loved and to make their time together meaningful. His evening routine started on the deck overlooking the lake with a rum and coke, followed by family dinners, candlelight, and storytelling. This cherished tradition created lifelong memories.

Harry was a kind, caring, and generous man who made everyone feel special. Though we will miss him dearly, his spirit lives on in our hearts and in the countless lives he touched. On May 14th — what would have been his 90th birthday — we encourage you to raise a glass and cheer in his honour.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the Ottawa Heart Institute for their exceptional care, and to the compassionate team at Bruyère, especially Dr. Sabala, whose tireless efforts made it possible for Harry to return home for his final days. We are deeply grateful to the dedicated Ottawa South Palliative Care team Doctors, whose professionalism and compassion brought great comfort during an incredibly difficult time. A special thank you also goes to the Bayshore Care Team for their everyday hands-on support, particularly nurse Slava, whose gentle and attentive care meant the world to Harry and his family.

A private family gathering will be held to celebrate his remarkable life.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Harry’s memory may be made to the University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Elisabeth Bruyère Hospital, or CHEO (Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario).

“Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift, that’s why we call it the present.” – We will honour and follow his example to live with gratitude, “One day at a time.”