Neil Frederick Fitzgibbons

FITZGIBBONS, Neil F. Of Harwich, died at home surrounded by family on Tuesday, July 27, 2010, after a long trial with cancer. Mr. Fitzgibbons was the husband of Beatrice Fitzgibbons. Neil ("Fitz" to most folks) was born on January 11, 1940, in Norwood, MA. He was the son of Marjorie Gifford and William Fitzgibbons. He graduated from Norwood High School and went on to attend Boston University where he earned a BA Degree in History. Neil also did course work in social work which led to his long career with the Big Brother Association of Boston and later Brockton, MA, where he became Assistant Director. Neil left Big Brother for new opportunities and entered the field of sales for several companies that dealt with the fish and lobster industries. Neil retired in 2008. Neil was an avid reader and a man of many talents. He immersed himself in the history of the United States and particularly World War Two. Over the decades he amassed a considerable library on these subjects as well as a comprehensive collection of WWII artifacts, correspondence and other important historical items. Fitz was an opera buff, listening to the great works for hours often while cooking. He was a fine chef, specializing in Chinese delicacies with which he delighted his family and many friends. Recreational fishing for both fresh and salt water species gave Neil endless enjoyment. He shared his love of fishing with both family and friends and was often found fishing with his four grandchildren. Finally, Neil's enthusiasm for sports, in particular Boston Bruins hockey and New England Patriots football, was a passion that rounded out a rich and full life. In addition to his wife of 48 years, Neil is survived by his daughter Kristina Carroll and her husband, Dan of Sebec, Maine; and son Brian and his wife Heather of Franklin, MA; four grandchildren, Clayton and Avery Carroll, and Colby and Jake Fitzgibbons; two sisters, Claire Dion and her husband, William of North Attleboro, MA, Janet O'Brien and David of Kingston, MA, and brothers, William Fitzgibbons of Wrentham, MA., and the late Gerald Fitzgibbons. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, July 31st, at 10:00 am at Holy Trinity Church, Main Street, West Harwich. In lieu of flowers please make donations in his name to VNA Hospice, 434 Route 134, Suite D-3, South Dennis, MA 02660.