Joseph T. Fitzpatrick

NORTH CANAAN —Joseph T. Fitzpatrick, 77, passed away unexpectedly Sunday evening Jan. 27, 2013, at Sharon Hospital after a brief illness. Joe was born April 21, 1935, in Philadelphia, Pa., where he was known on the streets as “The K.O. Kid.” He was the son of the late Barbara (Eslinger) and Joseph George Fitzpatrick. He served in the United States Navy from 1955 to 1959. His early visits to the Far East during his naval deployment spurred his interest in and fascination with the Asian culture. He went on to further his education and worked as a welder for Pratt & Whitney Aircraft, from which he retired as a foreman. During his years at Pratt he often undertook other endeavors as a painter, bakery owner and landlord. After his retirement, Joe enjoyed working for Metro North as a conductor. His thirst for adventure prompted him to relocate to Busan, South Korea, where he taught English as a second language to both children and adults for more than 16 years. He traveled extensively to many parts of the world and enjoyed an adventurous, full and interesting life. His generosity and kindness touched the lives of many people in many places of the world. He enjoyed cultural activities such as music, art and philosophy. His fondness for animals of all kinds brought him great joy. He loved life and humor and his thirst for knowledge continued throughout his life.Joseph’s love for his family brought him back to the United States in 2010. Joseph is survived by his sisters, Kathleen Gregoria of Pennsylvania and Joan Kennedy of New Jersey; his five children, Barbara Lindquist of Butte, Mont., Gerard Fitzpatrick of Middletown, Conn., Traci Johnson of Pearcy, Ark., Leslie and Geoffrey Klish of North Canaan and Celeste Fitzpatrick of Fairfield, N.J.; seven grandchildren, Sarah Clark, Kelsey Allen, Courtney Fitzpatrick, Dustin Fitzpatrick, Brittany Fitzpatrick, Liam Johnson and Carlen Johnson; and many nieces and nephews.His brother, Gerard Fitzpatrick, predeceased him. A celebration of his life was held at Saint Joseph’s Church in North Canaan on Jan. 30. Memorial donations may be made in his honor to The Little Guild of Saint Francis in West Cornwall or Saint Jude’s Hospital. Arrangements are under the care of the Kenny Funeral Home in Sharon.