Mary Jean “Jeam or MJ” Fitzsimons, age 59, passed away peacefully on Nov. 21, 2017 at her home surrounded by family and friends. Mary Jean requested there be no formal services and the family will be organizing a “celebration of life” at a later date. The family wishes to thank her many friends and family who supported Mary Jean through her battle with cancer. Think of her when you see flowers, as they are a reflection of her inner beauty and one of her true loves on earth. The Melby Funeral Home & Crematory, Platteville, is assisting the family. Online condolences may be made at www.melbyfh.com.
Mary Jean was born May 24, 1958, in Darlington, the daughter of Edward and Shirley Fitzsimons. She graduated from Darlington High School in 1976 and received a degree from Southwest Technical College in Fennimore. Her career was very important to her. She was employed as the Land Records Coordinator for Lafayette County from 1997-2015 and later worked as GIS Coordinator for the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.
Hobbies, such as horseback riding, golfing and gardening, were a big part of Mary Jean’s life. She could commonly be found making flower arrangements for friends’ weddings and other events. Mary Jean enjoyed watching sporting events, especially if one of her sons, nieces, or nephews were participating. She had a special love for the holidays and particularly enjoyed the annual cutting of the Christmas tree and lighting off fireworks for the 4th of July. Mary Jean loved watching the sunset over the family farm they built in 1997 and enjoyed star gazing on a clear country night with her telescope.
Mary Jean was incredibly blessed to have been surrounded by close, caring friends who enjoyed joining her in many fun-filled adventures such as concerts, ranger rides and pool tournaments. They were a continuous source of laughter, joy and companionship.
She is survived by three sons, Lucas (Meegan) Ritchie of Darlington, Wade (Katie) Ritchie of Lannon, Weston Ritchie of Darlington; two granddaughters, Everly Ritchie and Cora Ritchie of Lannon; her mother, Shirley; one sister, Kathy (Kevin) Wiegel of DeForest; five brothers, Pat (Kay) of Monroe, Tom (Gay), Ed (Julie), Bob (Missy), and Steve (Candi) all from Darlington. She was preceded in death by her father Edward.