Bernard J. Fitzsimons

Bernard J. Fitzsimons died peacefully June 2, 2025 at Overlook Medical Center.  He lived in Queens, NY most of his life, spending the last six years as a New Jersey resident. He spent his last day surrounded by six of his seven children, Maura Kelerchian, Bob Fitzsimons, Laurie Dunwoody, Sheila Scheurer, Terry Fitzsimons and Tom Fitzsimons.  He is now in heaven with his beloved wife, Laura, his son Bernard,  his grand daughter Kerry Rose, and his son in law Bob Scheurer.

“Bernie” grew up in Jackson Heights, NY.  He attended St. Joan of Arc grammar school, then on to Power Memorial High School on a basketball scholarship, fostering his life-long love of the game.  He studied business at Iona College, and spent his career in the insurance industry.

Bernie was the eldest son of Richard Fitzsimons and Agnes “Megga” Soutar.  His sister Mary Smith and brothers Richie and John will miss him, but know he is at peace and with his true love, Laura, and with his sister, Patricia Fenton, who introduced them so many years ago.

“Big Bern”, as he was affectionately known, loved to read, and passed on a love of reading to his family. 

He connected with his grandchildren on the topics they were interested in, whether art, sports or cooking.   Gabrielle and Alexis Kelerchian, Colleen and Carly Fitzsimons, Brian and Tom Dunwoody, Robert, John and Michael Scheurer, Matthew and Olivia Fitzsimons and Will Fitzsimons will all miss him. 

Big Bern’s favorite place in the world was Lake George, a place he introduced to so many people.  He shared Lake George with the people he cared about, and believed “the more the merrier.”

Big Bern is now with the family and friends he loved, and with his one true love, Laura.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to OPERATION SMILE, a charity Bernie supported.

Viewing Thursday  June 5 from 4-8 at Higgins and Bonner Echo Lake funeral home, 582 Springfield Ave Westfield, NJ.  Funeral mass at St Michael’s in Cranford at 10:00 am Friday, June 6.