Death of former senator jack fitzsimons of kells
The death has occurred of one of Meath's most colourful personalities, former senator and councillor, Jack Fitzsimons of Kells.
Mr Fitzsimons, an architect, was author of 'Bungalow Bliss' a design handbook for houses in the 1970s.
Senator Thomas Byrne has expressed his sympathies to the family of the late former senator Jack Fitzsimons.
He said: 'He was one of the most influential Kells people of the latter half of the twentieth century, whether it be in politics or architecture. Go ndéana Dia trócaire a a anam dílis'.
Jack Fitzsimons was a former Fianna Fáil member of Seanad Éireann. He was elected to the Seanad in 1983 by the Industrial and Commercial Panel, and re-elected in 1987. He lost his seat at the 1989 election. He ran as an independent candidate for the European elections in 1994 and his manifesto included a strong anti hunting and hare coursing policy. He secured 6,752 votes. He continued as activist against aspects of planning including the approach of Meath County Council to regulation of septic tanks.
Bungalow Bliss was published under the Kells Arts Studio label. There was a strong social context to this publication as at the time, architects’ fees were high and the book was intended to make affordable designs available at a low cost. It was first published in 1971 and reprinted 10 times, explaining the detail of all aspects of building a bungalow, from planning laws to how to put in a septic tank.
He also published a further range of books on aspects of Meath, heritage, and politics as well as some fiction. Publications included a history of his own native parish of Kilbeg.
Funeral Arangements
Fitzsimons, Jack. Architect and former Senator, Kenlis Lodge, Navan Road, Kells, Co. Meath. Died Tuesday, 4th November, 2014, peacefully, at Our Lady's Hospital, Navan. Much loved husband of Anne. Adored father of Cora, Lana, Lloyd, Emla and Ken. Loving grandad of Lorcan, Eabha, Ruby, Corinne, Louis and Conor. Regretted by his sons-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
Reposing at home at Kenlis Lodge on Wednesday, 5th November, from 3pm until 8pm. Removal from home on Thursday, 6th November at 1.30pm, arriving at St. Colmcille's Church at 1.45pm for Funeral Mass at 2pm. Burial in St. Colmcille's Cemetery, Kells.