William James Fitzpatrick

William James Fitzpatrick, a proud New Yorker, devoted family man, and Marine Corps veteran, passed away peacefully on June 14, 2026. He was born on May 11, 1946, in New York to Margaret and William Fitzpatrick.

Bill graduated from Archbishop Molloy High School and later earned his degree from Hofstra University. He proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps, carrying that sense of duty and pride with him throughout his life. Following his service, he built a lifelong career in the automotive industry, where his knowledge, work ethic, and love of cars and trucks were evident to all who knew him.

On June 8, 1968, he married the love of his life, Marianne Burke, beginning a partnership that spanned decades and was the foundation of a close-knit and loving family.

Bill had a deep appreciation for music, especially the sounds of Billy Joel, Bob Seger, and Tina Turner—artists who often provided the soundtrack to his life. He embraced his Irish heritage with enthusiasm, enjoying a good Irish whiskey or Irish coffee and celebrating anything that connected him to those roots.

A true New Yorker at heart, Bill loved all things New York—from a great slice of pizza, a fresh bagel, or a crumb cake to cheering on the Giants, Yankees and Knicks. He passed away the night of the Knicks' historic win and no doubt is already orchestrating more NY championships from up above. After moving to Virginia in the 1980s, he also became a devoted Washington Redskins fan and often reminisced about the John Riggins-era teams.

At home, Bill found great comfort in life’s simple pleasures. He loved his wife’s cooking and enjoyed watching the Food Network. Whether it was a great steak dinner or his favorite Chinese takeout, Bill approached every meal with enthusiasm. He was also an avid reader, especially of novels by James Patterson, John Grisham, and Nelson DeMille. Bill never passed up a trip to Williamsburg, Virginia, often making the drive in his beloved convertible—known to the family as the “date car.”

Above all, Bill was a family man. He is survived by his beloved wife, Marianne; his children, Cristin Finkel (Seth), Carolyn Fruzzetti (Richard), and Matthew Fitzpatrick (Stephanie); and his cherished grandchildren, Catelyn, Lauren, Sarah, Reagan, Liam, Julia, and Bridget, who affectionately knew him as "Pops." He was a proud and loving grandfather who found great happiness in time spent with his family.

Bill will be remembered for his quick wit, sharp sense of humor, and unmistakable sarcasm, as well as his deep loyalty and larger-than-life personality. He will be deeply missed, and remembered most by those who knew and loved him as sitting at the head of the table, recounting his stories and surrounded by laughter and love.

A Celebration of Life Gathering will take place on Monday, June 22nd from 4-8 PM at Murphy Funeral Home, 4510 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA 22203. Mass of Christian Burial will be the following day, Tuesday, June 23rd at 11 AM at St. Ann Roman Catholic Church, 5300 10th St. N. Arlington, VA 22205

A private interment will take place at Quantico National Cemetery at a later date in Triangle, Virginia.