Haroldlee Fitzsimmons

July 4, 1927 - May 18, 2019

Haroldlee, age 91 ¾ yrs, peacefully passed away Saturday May 18, 2019.  He was with family while in his recliner watching his favorite TV Western movies. Harold was born on July 4, 1927, in Kearney, Nebraska to Alfred K & Alyce L. (nee Duval) (adopted Hutchinson) Fitzsimmons.  He was the 2nd son of 4 children. The family came to the Rogue Valley in 1940. For over 78 years he lived on the family farm that’s soon to be a housing development. He left high school early to join the Army in the Korean conflict.  He was honorably discharged in January, 1947 as a Tech5 grade. He returned to Medford High School graduating in 1948. Harold met a friend’s (Ron) sister and fell in love.  Upon Merideth (Martin) graduating they married in June of 1953. They built a home near the family.  They raised 3 children:  Kaye (Brian) Carpenter with 2 children & 2 grandchildren; Kevin (Laura) with 4 children & 9 grandchildren; Kelly (Jenette) with 2 children & 2 grandchildren and another coming in December. Harold was a journeyman carpenter until retiring from the Carpenters’ Union in 1989 after a scaffolding accident.  He had assisted in building many local businesses such as the original KMART (now Winco), The 1st Rogue Valley Manor, the Central Point City offices, and so many more. He had a longtime passion for cars that he shared with his kids.  He was proud of a collection of his cars that were hand painted on his 11 retired hand saws. He loved to participate in local car shows. Harold & Merideth joined the local NW Bird Club. What started with a few pet birds, grew into breeding special love birds. He was well known for constructing nesting & shipping boxes for other members.  As honorary members they have made many longtime friends. As age crept upon him, he enjoyed watching TV Westerns.  It is only fitting this was how he rode off into his sunset. Harold is survived by his wife, Merideth, of almost 66 years; his 3 children; 8 grandchildren; and 13 ½ great grandchildren. He was the last living sibling.  Preceding him in death were his parents and his sister, Patricia (Melvin) Falconer with 3 nieces & nephews & many greats; brother Robert (Anita survives) with 6 nieces & nephews & many greats; and brother Billy – Fuzzy (Ella) with 3 nieces & many greats. He is also survived by many of Merideth’s brothers – Ron, Thom, Greg Martin & their families. Her brother Wally – Jim died in December 2018, his family survives.

Donations may be made to St Judes Children Hospital.  A gathering will be planned later.  Arrangements are being handled by www.memorygardensmortuary.com