James Brennan Fitzpatrick

JAMES BRENNAN FITZPATRICK

Cedar Rapids

James Brennan Fitzpatrick, 75, died at home while being cared for and surrounded by family on May 3, 2022. Jim requested a private burial, which will happen at a later date. Teahen Funeral Home and Cremation is serving the family.

Surviving are his wife of 54 years, Anne; daughters, Jennifer Fitzpatrick of Cedar Rapids and Jamie Campbell and husband, Mike of Sussex, Wis.; son, James "Jim" Fitzpatrick and wife, Krystal of Cedar Rapids; five grandchildren, Jacob Canby, Katelyn (Canby) Nikolaev and husband Dimitry, Elli DiDonato, Raelynn Fitzpatrick and Thomas James "T.J." Fitzpatrick; mother, Elizabeth "Betty" Fitzpatrick; sister, Michelle Hummell and husband, Kurt; aunt, Shirley A. May of Sun City West, Ariz.; uncle, Don L. and wife, Lola of Cedar Rapids; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father, Leo Lewis Fitzpatrick; and grandson, Drew Patrick DiDonato.

Jim was born to Leo L. and Elizabeth "Betty" Fitzpatrick on March 9, 1947, in Urbana, Iowa. He married his high school sweetheart, Anne Marie Penne, on July 1, 1967.

From 1967-69, Jim served as a medic in Korea during the Vietnam conflict.

After returning from Korea, Jim specialized in cement finishing and contracting for more than 50 years at E & F Cement and Asphalt and Concrete Inc., as well as F and E Paving Company Inc. in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. During those years he served in many roles. He was an integral part of ensuring both businesses were successful.

Jim was a member of many affiliations. He was proud to be a descendant of the Mayflower and belonged to the Sons of the Revolution. Because of his service to his country, he was a 50-year member of the American Legion and a lifetime member of Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Repeatedly, Jim requested that his obituary was not boastful. He wanted the focus to be on his loved ones and the care they provided him at home during his illness.

Family was highly valued by Jim. His family will remember his loving heart, and command of a room. Jim had strong opinions. Throughout his illness he made sure to pass on life lessons and would say,"You can't learn anything if you are talking." He believed in the value of education and was extremely proud of his children's accomplishments. Since family was highly valued, he was extremely generous with his time and good fortune. His family would repeatedly hear him say, "You can't be selfish if you want to be happy." Happiness was achieved for Jim when he could treat others to a great meal out. Toward the end of his illness, he was ordering food in and entertaining everyone with his humor. His family will cherish the time they had with him. They will cherish his words of wisdom and humor, aspiring to carry on his generous spirit.

Jim was blessed to have had great care from Dr. Milham "Mo" and his team at the University of Iowa, as well as Mercy hospice. He loved his dogs Maggie, Molly and finally, Riley. Throughout his life, they all gave him so much love and companionship.

Donations can be made to www.deafinitelydogs.org. 2802 Lippisch Place SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404.

Online condolences can be left at www.teahenfuneralhome.com.