pRochester: Charles E. Fitzgibbon, peacefully on March 14, 2016 at age 89. Predeceased by Rosemary, his wife of 52 years; parents, Kenneth and Harriet; sister, Ann Karl, and friend Lori Chamberlain. He is survived by his three children, Michael of Rochester, NY; Kevin (Sue) of Livonia, NY, and Eileen (Frank) Ortolani of Potomac, MD; four grandchildren, Bryan Fitzgibbon, Jennifer, Christopher and Andrew Ortolani; many nieces, nephews and lifelong friends. /ppBorn and raised in Watertown, NY, he graduated from Holy Cross College in Worcester, MA, and obtained a Master’s Degree in Journalism from Syracuse University. He also took time out to serve in the Navy on the USS Wasp during the Korean War, and he continued his service in the Navy Reserves as a Commander for many years afterward. /ppA gift to the community, Charlie spent countless hours making the world around him better. With his easy smile, quick wit, strong intellect, gregarious and caring manner, and ever-positive attitude, he always sought to be helpful in any way he could. Blessed with boundless energy and a strong desire to give back, he was involved with many local charities and civic organizations throughout his lifetime, including the Jaycees, the Genesee Settlement House, the Rochester Health Association, the Rochester Business Alliance and the Landmark Society./ppDuring his professional career that spanned more than 40 years, Charlie worked in Public Relations and retired as Director of State and Local Government Affairs at Eastman Kodak Co. He had a great and mutual respect and admiration for his associates and colleagues./ppA devoted family man, Charlie loved to be with his wife Rosemary, his children and grandchildren. He was a good neighbor and friend, and was always available to help. Among his many interests, Charlie had a passion for sailing at Pultneyville on Lake Ontario, and he enjoyed gardening, cross country skiing and swimming at the YMCA. Charlie and Rosemary loved to dine out with friends and family and attend Rochester Philharmonic Pops concerts and plays at Geva Theatre. They were long time devout members of St. Thomas More Church. /ppHis children would like to say a special Thank You to the wonderful staff and loving caregivers at Valley Manor Senior Living apartments and the Friendly Home. We will be forever grateful for the awesome care and kindness you provided our Dad. He was so fond of all of you. You are true angels! /ppFriends may call on Monday, March 21 between 4 and 7 pm at the Anthony Funeral Chapels (2305 Monroe Avenue). Friends are invited to bring a written memory or photo for the family’s Memory Book. A Memorial Mass will be held Tuesday, March 22 at 11:30 am at St. Thomas More Church (2617 East Avenue). He will be interred at White Haven Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Friendly Home, 3156 East Avenue, Rochester, NY 14618. To share a memory of Charlie, or send condolence to the family, visit www.anthonychapels.com. /p
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