Lyall Fitzsimmons
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Lyall Joseph Fitzsimmons, born on August 9, 1940, who passed away peacefully at Nipissing Serenity Hospice on November 8th, 2025, surrounded by his family.
Lyall was the loving husband of Ann (Doyle), and the beloved father of Patti (Puchala) and Tracey (MacPherson) and father-in-law of Chris MacPherson. He was the proud grandfather (Poppa) of Alex Puchala & Meredith (Molge), Chris Puchala, Jennifer (Puchala) & Connor Reed and Bennett MacPherson. He was also extremely proud of his great grandchildren, Charlie Puchala and Wade Reed.
He was predeceased by his parents, Viola (Fitzgerald) and Gordon Fitzsimmons, his brothers Lestor (his identical twin) & Tommy and his sisters Betty, Marilyn, Gayle & Roberta. He will be missed by his brother-in-law, John Doyle and his sister-in-law, Pat (Taylor) and his many nieces, nephews and friends.
Born and raised in North Bay, Lyall retired from Ontario Northland Transportation Commission in 1994 after 35 years of service. He was very active in his retirement enjoying regular golf outings with his friends, he belonged to the Gateway Glider Square Dance Club and was a weekly fixture at the Golden Age Club with his dancing partner of 64 years, Ann. Lyall was a sports enthusiast who played GMFA baseball, house league hockey and enjoyed cheering his grandchildren on whenever he got the opportunity to attend their soccer, baseball, football or hockey games. Quick witted and charming, he was a bright light in any room he entered. He had a great sense of fun, was a committed friend and a dedicated family man. He will be dearly missed.
Family will be receiving friends on Monday, November 17th at Hillside Funeral Services, 362 Airport Road, North Bay, Ontario, between 11-12:30 pm with the celebration of life to follow at 12:30 pm.
We’d like to thank the many nurses, doctors and personal support workers who looked after Lyall during both his hospital and hospice stays.
Donations to the North Bay Regional Health Centre Foundation (Diabetes Education Centre) or Nipissing Serenity Hospice in memory of Lyall, would be appreciated by his family. Online condolences can be made at www.hillsidefuneral.ca
