Raymond "Dale" Fitzpatrick

Raymond Fitzpatrick, better known to friends and family as Dale, passed away unexpectedly at South Lake Hospital in Clermont, FL at the age of 85. Dale was born in Pawnee County, Oklahoma to Arnold and Nellie (Fuss) Fitzpatrick. Dale attended the Quay School in his county with eight other students. His early years consisted of helping with the family farm and servicing the oil wells. Dale then joined the army for one term and proceeded to Oklahoma State University where he discovered his interest in keeping people safe with fire alarm systems.

Dale traveled the nation assisting corporations and government agencies with this technology. This passion grew to include nurse call, sound, security and camera systems. An entrepreneur at heart, he bought a struggling business and turned it into a lifelong service to his community and surrounding areas. His experience and dedication to his craft provided aid to an unforeseeable amount of people. With the steadfast facilitation from his Executive Assistant, Pat Chantos, an extremely supportive office staff, a team of devoted and knowledgeable technicians and the support of his family, Life Safety Design, Inc. became a leader in the security industry. The success was quite an honor, one in which Dale accepted modestly. His life’s work extends beyond his passing.

Dale was first united in marriage to Sue Porter Fleming and the couple was blessed with three children, Kelly Fitzpatrick O’Neill, Helen Winner (Brian) and Robert Fitzpatrick (Lisa). From this union, Dale was extendedly blessed with eight grandchildren and eight great grandchildren and counting. Dale’s face would light up whenever they were in his presence. Family gave him joy.

Later in life, Dale met Gail “Page” Clingan and he courted her until their marriage in 1976. A simple ceremony on Christmas Eve led to a 45 year marriage in which a daughter, Sasha Fitzpatrick Woodward (Brad) was born. The couple maintained a beautiful home where they had celebrations with their friends and family. Dale worked constantly either at his office, sales meetings, maintaining his gardens, caring for his horses, boat, bird feeders and volunteering. His breakfasts at VIPS and various lunch destinations with his true pals were always a source of friendship and camaraderie.

The Shriners, Elks, March of Dimes, Illinois Security Association, Danville Boat Club, G.A.O Grotto, Masonic Temple and AMBUCS are a sample of the organizations in which he was proud to be a member. He was a founder of the Danville Crime Stoppers, as well as the long term treasurer of the Bismarck Fire Board. Keeping people safe and helping to keep honest people honest served as his motivation. He assisted people whenever and wherever he could without being asked or acknowledged.

After the sale of his business and the death of his wife, Page, Dale moved to Clermont, Florida to be close to his children and extended family. He maintained the social butterfly spirit that attracted many new friends. He was active until the day of his death, attending sporting events for his great grandchildren, going to breakfast with the guys, lovingly teasing his family and keeping everyone on their toes. Dale leaves behind a hole that will never be filled in the hearts of his friends and family.

Dale is preceded in death by his brothers, Roy Lee Fitzpatrick, Bill Fitzpatrick and Bill’s wife Marilyn. Sue Porter Fleming and Page Fitzpatrick also passed within his lifetime. He is survived by his sister, Donna Faye Crowell and his brother Jim Fitzpatrick. Also surviving are his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Page’s sister, Melanie Worley (Robert), her two children and two grandchildren also join in mourning the loss of Dale. Melanie could always put a smile on his face and give him a hard time. Melanie and her husband, Bob, were always there for him with whatever they could do to assist.

No services have been planned. He had requested cremation and for the family to follow up with what they deem appropriate toward his wishes. There will be various joyful celebrations of his life within the communities in which he was loved. Raymond Dale Fitzpatrick left a mark on this world that will not soon be forgotten.