George Charles Fitch

George was born in Mexico City, Mexico on September 17, 1915, to James and Lucy (Garcia) Fitch. He was the middle of five children. As a young boy, the family moved from Mexico City to Steilacoom, Wa. where he attended grade school. After graduating from high school in Everett, Wa. he attended Washington State University in Pullman, Wa., but interrupted his education to return to Everett and start a family. He worked as a Fireman in Everett, but enlisted in the U.S. Navy during WWII, and served aboard the USS Shamrock Bay.

After being discharged he returned to Washington and worked as a sports writer at the Everett Daily Herald. A college education was important to him, and so George returned to his birthplace and enrolled in the University of Mexico in Mexico City on the G.I. Bill. Where he graduated with a degree in English. After graduation, George moved to and settled in California. He worked a few different jobs before finding a career with the State of California in the Department of Standards. He retired in December of 1977.

He married Iris McQuiston on January 19, 1968, in Reno, Nevada. He and Iris enjoyed a happy life together until her passing.

George was a God-fearing, devoted Catholic. He was a longtime member of St. John's Cathedral in Fresno where he served as a Eucharistic Minister and he taught CCD classes. His faith and devotion to the Lord was unfailing.

He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, the American Legion and also a lifetime member of the Elks. He enjoyed traveling, and sports. He was an avid golfer, and an enthusiastic stamp collector. Those who knew George would describe him as a dapper, sharp man, whose signature look was a suit and tie.

George is preceded in death by his loving wife, Iris Fitch; his older brother, James Fitch; and his only sister, Emily Fitch.

He is survived by his only daughter, Carole Rasmussen and her husband Wayne of Seattle, Wa.; two grandchildren, Rae Ann Paulson and her husband Mike, and Aimee Anderson and her husband Bill, both of Seattle, Wa.; three great-grandchildren, Julie Anderson of Coeur d'Alene, ID., Katie Rasmussen, and Steve Anderson, both of Seattle, Wa.; and one great-great granddaughter, Aurora Georgiadis of Seattle, Wa. He is also survived by his two younger brothers, Edward Fitch of Cameron Park, Ca. and Charles Fitch and his wife Marilynn of Santa Rosa, Ca.; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held at Stephens & Bean Funeral Chapel on Wednesday, Novemeber 16, 2011, from 2:00 to 7:00 p.m.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. John's Cathedral on Thursday, November 17, 2011, at 10:30 a.m, followed by interment at Fresno Memorial Gardens. A time for fellowship and remembrance will take place following the committal.

Arrangements under the direction of Stephens & Bean Funeral Chapel, Fresno, CA.