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John Paul Fitzsimmons

March 5, 1936-

January 31, 2020

John Paul Fitzsimmons age 83, passed away in Odessa, Wash., on January 31, 2020.

John was born on March 5, 1936 to John V. and Lois (Burns) Fitzsimmons in Pomeroy, Wash. John graduated from Pomeroy High School before attending and graduating from Washington State University (WSU) in 1959 with a Bachelor of Science degree with a minor in Horticulture, minor in Animal Husbandry and a minor in Soils and business.

While attending WSU John married his high school sweet heart Florence Burns on June 15, 1957 in Pomeroy, Wash. After graduating John went to work for the National Bank Commerce where he began managing and training banking employees, working in Kennewick, Quincy, Seattle, and Endicott just to name a few. After 20 years of service with National Bank Commerce he then joined the Wheatland Bank group where he finished his banking career retiring in 2001.

John was a very community minded and giving man in whatever community he lived in. He was a member of the Scottish Rite, Masonic Brethren, El Katif Shrine, Order of the Eastern Star, Royal Order of Scotland and the National Camping Travelers. He has served in many capacities in each of these organizations throughout his life. He had been active in three Junior Chamber of Commerce Chapters, two Volunteer Fire Departments, two Kiwanis Clubs, three Lions Clubs, and served as president on the United Fund Board. After retiring he was very active in setting up and volunteering at the local rest stops passing out coffee and cookies to many travelers.

John is survived by his wife of over 62 years, Florence Fitzsimmons, Son, John Wylie Fitzsimmons, Daughters Sherri Poplin, Susan Chesser, five grandchildren, one great grandchild and a sister Betty Lee Gray.

A celebration of Life will be held at the Chapel of Strate Funeral Home, 505 10th Street, Davenport, Wash., on Friday, March 13, 2020 at 2 p.m. Strate Funeral Home is serving the Fitzsimmons family.