Michael Joseph Fitzsimmons

Michael J. Fitzsimmons, 61, of Tucson, AZ passed away on June 12, 2026, following a lengthy and courageous battle with cancer. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Anne and Owen Fitzsimmons. He leaves behind a loving family and community of friends: his spouse, Jason Richter, who cared for him until the end; brother Stephen, with wife Shannon and nephew Owen; sister-in-law Malissa Vargo and nephews Nigel and Soren; and all of the Adams family, including Catherine who throughout the years became affectionately known as ‘Aunt Cathy’ and was a mentor and confidante for many of his formative years. Others include relatives in Scotland and the United Kingdom, as well as close friends and work colleagues including Valerio, Mary, Nara, Dr. Dave, Nancy, Allyson and those who he touched with his kindness through the years.

Michael was born on November 8th, 1964 and grew up in Port Reading, NJ. He attended elementary school at St. Anthony of Padua and high school at St. Thomas Aquinas in Edison, NJ, where he graduated in 1982. Michael utilized his gift as a young organist and a pianist to contribute to tuition by playing at funerals and weddings. Michael attended the Catholic University of America in Washington, DC, where he graduated in 1986 with a degree in History. During his time in DC, Michael worked at the Smithsonian American Art Museum before pursuing graduate studies at Indiana University in Bloomington IN, where he fulfilled all his academic requirements up to ABD in Russian History. While at IU, Michael met Valerio Ferme. The two were close friends and shared many adventures and good times throughout the years including a memorable Disney World trip with Valerio’s son “little” Michael.

Having moved to California in 1992, Michael put his deep analytical skills and acute intellect to work in the pharmaceutical world, working for industry giants Berlex, Pfizer and Aventis, where he ascended to the position of Global metadata librarian. While at Berlex, he had the opportunity to return to New Jersey and live near his family, as he created an extended circle of friends and where he met his spouse, Jason. Before moving to Tucson, they built a life together in Griggstown with their beloved Westies, Kirby and Babaloo hosting many family events and holidays. They shared a passion for learning, a mutual love of art, music and traveling.

An insatiable reader, Michael was a brilliant scholar, teacher and mentor. Nicknamed “McWiki” for his profound knowledge on most topics, he never stopped learning and could speak at length on virtually any topic especially world history, religion and politics. He was particularly passionate about the history of Britain and the British monarchy. He personally curated an extensive library that will be donated for the benefit of those who, like him, have made the pursuit of knowledge a lifelong journey.

Michael cultivated a clever wit and infectious laughter which resonated every time one met him. At the same time, he was generous toward those less fortunate than him, and enjoyed mentoring friends and family, as well as supporting their endeavors both emotionally and financially.

We will miss his resilience, companionship, intellect, and affectionate warmth.

https://youtu.be/bBm8FrfL6UM?si=d0GXsLAolpEiuqKZ

Donations in Michael's memory can be directed to the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona for the purpose of the LGBTQ+ Alliance Fund Endowment.

Donations by check can be mailed to 5049 E. Broadway Blvd, Suite 201, Tucson, AZ 85711. Donations by credit card can be made at cfsaz.org/give.