Obituary: James F. Fitzgibbons; Formerly Of Meriden

MERIDEN, CT — (From Meriden Memorial Funeral Home): James F. Fitzgibbons, of Sarasota, Florida, formerly of Meriden, son of the former Thomas M. Fitzgibbons and Loretta Bergin Fitzgibbons, was born in Meriden. He was predeceased by his brothers Thomas ll who died in Normandy in 1944, Robert of Meriden and Wallingford, Carl, of Portland, CT, and his sister, Patricia Danby of Meriden and Vero Beach, FL.

James is survived by his loving wife, the former Rosalie Darmofalski. Daughters, Loretta Luhman and her husband Gerald Luhman of Sarasota, FL, Maureen Young and her husband Christopher Young of Lakewood Ranch, FL, and their son, Matthew Fitzgibbons of New Milford, CT. He leaves seven grandchildren: Austin Luhman, Eve Luhman, and Garrett Luhman, Shannon Young, Katherine Young, Jessica Young and Brendan Fitzgibbons, as well as Brendan’s mother, Bernadette Fitzgibbons, two great-granddaughters, Emily Luhman and Alexandra Luhman. James is also survived by nephews Thomas Fitzgibbons lll, Kevin Danby, sisters-in-laws Marjorie Fitzgibbons, and Joan Fitzgibbons, as well as several nieces and nephews.

James graduated from St. Rose School in Meriden, CT, attended Wilcox Technical School also in Meriden, CT. James enlisted into The Marine Corps after his 17th birthday. He served honorably for three years and attained the rank of Sergeant.

After attaining his high school equivalency diploma while working at The International Silver Company, Jim attended and graduated from Central Connecticut State College where he earned his B.S. in History in 1964.

With a solid knowledge and wide background of experience, James established ISPG Inc. nearly 37 years ago. The company is now located in Lakewood Ranch, FL. and enjoys a long list of satisfied customers and suppliers worldwide. Longevity is paramount in the Orient and James successfully bridged positive relationships there and elsewhere.

James loved reading American History and military books. Ahead of an international trip he would study the history and culture of the nation he would visit. He loved regaling friends and family with stories and jokes. James often said that the two most important decisions he made in his life were to marry Rosalie Darmofalski and to join the United States Marine Corps. His wide affable smile and fun-loving spirit will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, James would have appreciated donations to the following: Tidewell Hospice, 5955 Rand Boulevard, Sarasota, FL 34238 or Semper Fi and American’s Fund, for our Combat Wounded, ill, and Wounded, PMB 609, Oceanside, CA 92057. This is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the military honors ceremony and inurnment, Thursday, May 30, 2024 at 11:30 a.m. in the Sacred Heart Cemetery Mausoleum in Meriden. Local arrangements are under the direction of the Meriden Memorial Funeral Home, 450 Broad St. www.meridenmemorialfh.com