Edward J. Fitz Jr., age 86, formerly of Fairfield, more recently of Trumbull, passed away on Thursday, Oct. 8. Born in Easton, Ed grew up in Fairfield and graduated from Roger Ludlowe High School, class of 1952. After graduating, he enlisted in the Navy, serving on the U.S.S. Shenandoah (AD-26) out of Portsmouth, VA. He met the love of his life, Eleanor, while in the Navy and married while both were still in the service. The pair came back to Fairfield to settle down and begin their family.
He pursued a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Bridgeport. He took his handiness and knowledge to the automotive field, where he would patent some of his best ideas to better the industry. He was a member of the Housatonic Fly Fisherman’s Association and of the National Association of Naval Veterans — Port 5. His love for the water and its ecosystems led him to volunteer for nearly 30 years for Trout Unlimited, where he would spend time assisting in the rehabilitation of local rivers and streams. He was also very interested in genealogy, extensively researching his own lineage.
He is survived by his three loving children and their spouses, Ellie Susmeyer (Joseph) of Easton, Edward J. Fitz III (Tenya) of Woodbury, and James D. Fitz (Anne) of Fairfield; four cherished grandchildren, Lindsey, Joey, Jimmy, and Michael; as well as three beloved great-grandchildren, Anna, Jimmy, and Henry. He is also survived by a sister, Lee Kline of Gainesville, FL. Fitz is predeceased by his loving wife, Eleanor Planter Fitz.
Services will be held at a later date when it is safe to gather. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution in Ed’s memory to the Nutmeg Chapter of Trout Unlimited.
For information or to sign an online register, please visit the Spear Funeral Home.
