James Fitzwater

September 14, 1949 to December 19, 2024

James "Jim" Robert Fitzwater, born September 14, 1949 to Harvey and Rosalie Fitzwater in Crawfordsville, Indiana, passed away peacefully on December 19, 2024 at Franciscan Health Lafayette.

Jim married Marcia Iverson in 1969 and they had one son, Jerod (Summer) of Crawfordsville. He then married Deb Taylor and they had one son, Josh of Canton, Georgia. He then married Jerri Berlin McCarthy, she has two daughters which Jim considered his own, Kendra (Chris) Snodgrass or Florida and Kelly Garett of Crawfordsville.

Jim was a loving grandfather of 9 grandchildren. Surviving family includes his sister Joyce Fitzwater of Crawfordsville, 2 step sisters and 1 stepbrother and was preceded in death by his father, while his mother, Rosalie Skiles of Lafayette, survives.

Jim attended Calvary Chapel of Crawfordsville.

Graduating from Crawfordsville High School in 1967. Jim went to work at age 14 and until he went into the Army in 1970, where he served one year in Vietnam as a combat platoon Sargent and was very proud of his service. Upon returning from Vietnam, he went into the Potato chip business, owning his own routes for 25 years. He then opened Premier Video, growing into three stores, after that he opened Arni's in Crawfordsville, and partnering with a longtime friend opened Arni's in Lebanon, and finally before retiring began an internet business selling Garden Torches.

Jim retired at age 63, having many health issues from exposure to agent orange while in Vietnam and it finally won. Upon retirement Jim spent much time with family, his favorite pal "YOGI" (who knew when it was time to jump in the truck). If you couldn't find Jim you guess he was at a car show or auction. Jim had an incredible group of buddies who were like family and he might be found at a casino or out to lunch with one of them also.

Jim enjoyed all sports, and loved watching his boys, then grandkids in all their sports. He coached from Biddy Ball to a summer high school league. Jim would always lend a helping hand to young people. Jim was an avid IU fan. He also loved classic cars and owned a few.

Cremation was chosen, at Jims request, there will be a private graveside service with military honors at Oak Hill Cemetery North with Dave Keesee officiating.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the local DAV Chapter
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