Rest in Peace, Jack

Rest in Peace to my friend Jack Fitzpatrick who passed away last night. He had just celebrated his 93rd birthday. Jack served on the U.S.S. Alabama in World War II, the Greatest Generation. I had been visiting Jack for the past 8 or so years and he told me many stories of his time in service.

In civilian life Jack was a chauffeur for  Helen Keller .  He met many well-known people including Eleanor Roosevelt as a result of this. 

Jack had one brother and an adopted brother who stayed with him to the end.  His adopted brother was almost always with Jack and me when I visited.

At some point in Jack's life, his other brother died leaving three sons who Jack took on as his own. He often referred to them as his sons even though they were nephews.  All three boys attended New York Military Academy.  Only one of his nephews is still alive but very ill having suffered several serious strokes.

Jack's adoptive brother, 83,  lived with Jack pretty much his entire adult life and he cared for Jack during his later years.  He was with him every single day of Jack's 10 years at The Lutheran Home in Southbury.

We will all miss our conversations with Jack.  He was a great man.