Fitch, James Edward (Deacon Jim)

Jim was born on January 23, 1936, the son of  Edward E. and Rose Case Fitch; he had older siblings, a brother, Richard; and sisters Helen and Janet.  Jim attended Newark, NY schools and after graduation from High School, started a career in banking.  In February of 1956, Jim was drafted into the United States Army and served in Germany during the Cold War, in the Finance Office, through February 1958.  Upon returning from the Army, he returned to banking at Lincoln Rochester Trust Company.  

Jim married his high school sweetheart, Donna DeWispelaere, on April 19, 1958, and lived in Newark, New York.  They were members of St. Michael Church in Newark and were involved in various ways.   

Jim and Donna were gifted with six sons, James II, Peter, Christopher, Thomas, John, and Michael.  Jim was a wonderful husband, a great father who thoroughly enjoyed spending time with his family, and a good friend to all who knew him.  In August of 1970, they moved to Fairport where they became immersed in the neighborhood and were founding members of Church of the Resurrection.  Jim sensed a call to service and was ordained a Permanent Deacon of the Roman Catholic Church in Rochester, by Bishop Emeritus Matthew H. Clark in 1987.  Jim enjoyed his banking career and was held in high esteem by both his co-workers and his customers.  Jim retired from banking in 2000, but after retirement, Jim went to work at Holy Rosary in Rochester, New York.  Jim and Donna ministered in many ways in the Diocese of Rochester.  

Jim leaves behind his wife, Donna.  Sons:  Jim (Sharon Wesoky); Peter (Carrie Wiles); Christopher  (Amanda Kain); Tom (Jeanine Ingrassia); John (Connie Shannon); and Michael (Jean Sudore). Thirteen grandchildren: Jamie Petronio; Sarah, Jacob, and Matthew Fitch; Alexander Joseph Fitch; Dawn McPherson, Morgan and Robin Fitch, and Peter, David and Michael Shannon; Michael Calvin (Cal) and Katie Fitch; and a great-granddaughter, Alannah McPherson.  

Because of the Pandemic, there will be no calling hours and Jim’s funeral will be private with immediate family only.  In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Jim’s memory to Church of the Resurrection, 63 Mason Road, Fairport, NY 14450, or to a charity of your choice.  Thank you all for your beautiful cards, kind words, etc.  Jim will be missed by all who knew him, especially his wonderful warm smile! 

For family to view the Service please visit https://resurrectionfairport.org/livestream