William Michael Fitzsimmons

Commander William M. Fitzsimmons, 77 Commander William M. Fitzsimmons (“Bill”), 77, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 29, 2021, at home with his family by his side. Bill is survived by his loving wife, Aldora Sousa Fitzsimmons; his three sons Paul W. Fitzsimmons (wife Christine) of Charlottesville, Virginia, PO1 Christopher M. Fitzsimmons, U.S. Navy (Ret.) of Virginia Beach, Virginia, and CAPT Scott P. Fitzsimmons, U.S. Navy (wife Christie) of Purcellville, Virginia; his sister Nancy Warren of Marlborough, Massachusetts; his brother Kevin Fitzsimmons of Littleton, Massachusetts; and his favorite aunt Lorraine Chute of Marlborough, Massachusetts. He was predeceased by his mother Hazel Byrnes of Marlborough, Massachusetts and his father William M. Fitzsimmons, Sr. of Newton, Massachusetts. Born May 25, 1944, in Waltham, Massachusetts, Bill joined the United States Navy in February 1962 at the age of 17. He rose through the ranks quickly, serving as a First-Class Petty Officer, Warrant Officer, and retiring as a Commander after 34 years of service. He was proud of his service as a Navy Cryptologist and traveled the world, with assignments in Morocco, the Azores, Portugal, Rota, Spain, and London, England. He served as Commanding Officer of Naval Security Group Activity Azores, at sea on numerous submarines, as well as onboard USS OXFORD (AG-159), USS CARON (DD-970), USS SARATOGA (CV-60), and USS MOUNT WHITNEY (LCC-20). His service included the Vietnam War, Action in the Gulf of Sidra (1986), and the First Gulf War. He was awarded the Defense Meritorious Service Medal with oak leaf cluster, the Meritorious Service Medal with four gold stars, and numerous other personal and unit commendations. After retirement, Bill enjoyed watching his beloved Boston Red Sox and spending time with his wife and family. Bill will be buried at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors. All friends and family are welcome to attend. In lieu of flowers, Bill requested that donations be made to the American Heart Association www.heart.org. Condolences may be left at www.dignitymemorial.com.