James Paul Fitzpatrick

Jim was a remarkable individual known for his artistic talents and was a born “tinkerer”. He grew up swimming competitively at the Bensalem Swim Club and loved playing baseball and softball. He possessed an uncanny ability to fix anything that came his way and was renowned for his resourcefulness. A smart and inquisitive person, Jim could enjoy meaningful conversations with just about anyone. His love for dogs was apparent, and he shared a special bond with them.

An avid lover of nature, Jim loved his time by lake, especially if he had a cold Coors Light and a chance to tell stories by the bonfire. He was always up for a trip, especially if there was a battlefield or fort nearby. If you were looking for him you knew you could probably find him spending time outdoors observing birds and wildlife, especially in the gazebo. He had a green thumb and took pleasure in "shrubbing" and creating a unique garden. In his leisure time, Jim enthusiastically supported Penn State and the Steelers as well as watching NASCAR and TV shows centered around automotive repairs or wildlife. His culinary prowess was legendary, and his spaghetti sauce was unrivaled.

Throughout his life, Jim exemplified a strong work ethic and instilled the value of hard work in his children. He pursued his passion for cars and worked as a Certified Master Mechanic. Later in life, he transitioned into education and imparted his knowledge and experience to others as an instructor. Jim was always eager to teach and provide insightful advice to those around him even if the only answer was “it is what it is.”

Jim would tell you he “never had a bad day” or “if he was any better he’d be twins” and everyone could tell you how much of a happy person he was and that was true even during his lengthy battle which was in no small part due to the overwhelming love and support his care team provided him.

Jim was the son of the late Helen Marie (Hagan) and William P. Fitzpatrick. Jim will be deeply missed by his beloved wife, Crystal “Jean” (Russ), and his children Carole Gardineer (Bill) and Jim Fitzpatrick (Shari). He was a devoted grandfather to Carly and Allie Gardineer and Ben Fitzpatrick, and a proud great grandfather to McKenna. Jim was also a dear brother to Bill Fitzpatrick (Sue), Tom Fitzpatrick (Deb), Sue Dillon (Den), and Bob Fitzpatrick (Cheryl). Additionally, he leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews who will fondly remember him.

Our dad had two chapters of his life and we are so thankful that the 2nd chapter was spent with the love of his life, Crystal. Crystal gave our dad the opportunity to experience giving true love and knowing it was always going to be given back to him. They lived a life full of genuine happiness together and we can never thank her enough for being there for him. As he told her many times over the last few years “our life together has really been a good ride.”

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in his memory to the St. Jude Children’s Foundation, which held a special spot in Jim’s heart.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Friday, June 2, 2023, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm at the James J. Dougherty Funeral Home, Inc., located at 2200 Trenton Road, Levittown.

Interment will be held privately.