John C. Fitzpatrick

John was born in Brewster, MA on September 30, 1935. He was the son of the late Ernest E. and Yvonne (Lefevre) Fitzpatrick. He was a graduate of Orleans High School, class of 1953. He also proudly served his country in the United States Army signal corps and was in Korea for one year.

John joined the Orleans Police Department in 1961 and retired as lieutenant in 1998. While on the department, he had the dream of finding a 1946 Chevrolet to restore as a replica of Orleans’ first cruiser. This was accomplished in the early '90s with the help of some fellow officers and the Orleans Police Relief Association. He was very proud of this accomplishment and took impeccable care of it. He led the Orleans 4th of July parade every year since in this car. Upon his retirement, he became the town constable. A position held until he passed away. John was also president of the association after his retirement. After retiring from the Police Department, he worked at Friends Marketplace for 13 years.

John was a daily communicant at St. Joan of Arc Church, and where he was an usher/collector for nearly 50 years. He was also a member of the Respect Life Committee, served on the Parish Council, was a Eucharistic Minister, and was also an adult altar server.

John was a charter member of the Pope Paul VI Council Knights of Columbus in Chatham and served as Grand Knight for 2 terms. In 2001, he became a District Deputy. In 2003, he was instrumental in reinstituting the Old St. Joan of Arc Council. He served 2 terms as Grand Knight there as well.

John enjoyed spending time in Florida every winter since his retirement from the police department. He also cherished his time with his family, grandchildren, and his countless friends. John was a true gentleman who had a firm handshake for every man and a warm hug for every woman and a smile that lit up a room. He will be missed deeply by everyone.

He is survived by his son Brian (Dottie) of Orleans, his daughter Erin (Jim) Stratton of Orleans, five grandchildren, Rebecca, Cameron, and Brayden Fitzpatrick and Cody and Lydia Stratton; as well as his great-granddaughter, Makayla Bishop. He is also survived by his sister, Joan Roderick of Provincetown, brother, Paul (Kathy) of Danville, CA, two cousins, Margie (Pete) Marsella of Chester, NY, and Fr. Januarius Izzo, OFM of S. Boston. As well as many nieces, nephews, and his breakfast club. He was predeceased by the love of his life of 48 years, Jacqueline (Jacqui) Grenier Fitzpatrick and his brother Pierre.

His memorial service will be held on Friday, November 15, 2013 at 11:00 am in St. Joan of Arc Church, 61 Canal Road, Orleans. Interment will follow in Orleans Cemetery, Orleans, MA.

Memorial Donations may be made in his honor to St. Joan of Arc Church, 61 Canal Road, Orleans, MA 02653 or to the Orleans Police Relief Association, 90 South Orleans Road, Orleans, MA 02653. For online condolences, please visit www.nickersonfunerals.com