John Edward Fitzsimmons "Little John" passed away December 31, 2023 in Cortland Illinois. John was born to Kenneth and Phyllis Paxton Fitzsimmons on January 2, 1970. He graduated from Ottumwa High School in 1988 and entered the US Navy at this time. John spent time on aircraft carriers and entered many ports during that time. John was an avid Star Wars fan including winning an all-expense paid trip to march in the Rose Bowl Parade and meeting George Lucas.
John is survived by his mother Phyllis Dean of Ottumwa and father Kenneth Fitzsimmons of Agency, sisters Kelly Sue Smithburg of Tomah, WI and Joani Kay Johnson of Knoxville, IA, and his brother Robin Ray Fitzsimmons of Ottumwa. And many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, step-father Emery Dean, nephew Andrew Lee Smithburg and great-nephew Keenan Rockhold.
His body has been cremated and no services are planned at this time. Burial will be in the McCormick Cemetery at a later date. Memorials may be made to Wapello County Veterans Affairs.