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Raymond L. Fitzpatrick, 85, of Neoga, IL, passed away peacefully on April 19, 2025 in Charleston, IL. He was a rare combination of someone who loved life and had a firm understanding of what was important—the simplicity of living a life with those you love.
“Fitz” as he was known by all, was born on August 8, 1939 to Martin and Louise Fitzpatrick in Chicago, IL. After graduating from Lindblom High School, he joined the Army and fought in the Korean War. His service and dedication to his country was mirrored by his dedication to his family and his faith.
Upon returning home, Fitz held many odd jobs until he found his calling as a butcher for Helleman’s, and retired from Dominick’s Finer Foods after more than 40 years in the business.
On a fateful St. Patrick’s Day Parade morning in downtown Chicago, Fitz accidentally stepped on a very tiny, beautiful girl’s foot. This chance encounter led to his marriage to Irene Gomez in 1964; they went on to have one child, Martin.
Fitz’s family meant more to him than anything else in the world, something he mentioned often. He was immensely proud of his son Marty, his wife Melissa and his three grandchildren Katherine, Josie and Ryan. “Grampy” as they called him, was thrilled when his first granddaughter married Rafa and gave him the chance to be a great grandpa to Nico and Mateo. Fitz was a man of action, always determined to provide for his family in every way and give them the life he felt they deserved. He was a regular face at school plays, awards ceremonies and sports events. Fitz was predeceased by his wife Irene, brother Gerry, sister Kaye, his father Martin, mother Louise and stepfather Peter.
To Fitz, his close friends were more like his family. Upon moving to Oak Forest, he formed the “Rob Roy Raiders” with the help of other like-minded friends from the block, securing a tradition of football and friends that continues to this day. His legendary performances in St. Damian’s Cabaret and The Great Pretenders earned him many accolades. He was always up for a good laugh, even if it was at his own expense. After moving to Neoga, he quickly formed new friendships, celebrating those around him daily at Beer 30. Known for his love of leftovers, he accumulated a vast collection of to-go containers that were delivered with love, and more importantly, the opportunity to connect with his lake family.
He was a connoisseur of good Irish whiskey, ham on the bone and other salty and canned meats. He never missed an opportunity to praise his favorite football team, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. He appreciated a good Jimmy Buffet song, and adopted his lifestyle by curating a fine collection of Hawaiian shirts.
Anyone who knew Fitz knew him as the most loving husband, father and friend you could ask for. Please join us in celebrating his life in Neoga, IL on Friday, May 2nd at St Mary of the Assumption Church, at 10am. An additional service will be held in Oak Forest, IL at St. Damian Church on Monday, May 5th at 10am.
The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Mary of the Assumption church in Neoga, IL or to the Veteran’s Administration facility in Marion, IL to continue to support those in need.
To plant a tree in memory of Raymond Leon Fitzpatrick, visit the Tribute Store.
Krabel Funeral Home & Cremation Service
215 E. Main St., Oakland, IL 61943 • Phone: (217) 346-2121
602 E. Madison Ave., Chrisman, IL 61924 • Phone: (217) 269-2392
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