Lloyd S. Fitzwater

Lloyd S. Fitzwater, age 92, of rural West Lebanon, Indiana, passed away at 7 a.m. CDT on Saturday, August 27, 2011, at Provena United Samaritans Medical Center in Danville, Illinois. He was born near Rossville, Illinois, on June 28, 1919, to John R. and M. Eunice (Spears) Fitzwater, the middle son of three boys. He married his high school sweetheart, Vera M. Stump, on December 27, 1939, in Williamsport, Indiana; she preceded him in death on January 29, 2008, after 68 years of marriage together. Lloyd grew up in the Antioch area and graduated from Rossville High School in 1937. A farmer for 58 years (in Illinois and Indiana) before retiring in 2002, he saw many changes over the years in agriculture. Farming was both his livelihood and his hobby. He loved everything about country-life and always knew the market price of corn and beans. Green was his choice for equipment (i.e., John Deere). He was very resourceful; with his motto of “Never fear, Fitz is here”, many dilemmas were resolved. He loved filet mignon, cherry pie, and red roses. He enjoyed sports and particularly liked Michael Jordan/Chicago Bulls, LeBron James/Miami Heat, and Peyton Manning/Indianapolis Colts. A member of the Rossville Church of Christ, he previously served as a Deacon and board member. When the new church was built in 1963-64, he was Chairman of the Board; highly involved in the construction, he hauled many loads of materials including stone and trusses. He is survived by his only child, Mary Lou (John) Mauck of rural West Lebanon, Indiana; granddaughter Gwen Smith of Bellbrook, Ohio; grandson Brian (Janine) Garbacz of Jacksonville, Florida; and great grandson, Tyler Smith; also, a special friend, Doug Cunningham. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Maurice and Martane. According to his wishes, there will be no visitation. Graveside services will be on Friday, September 2 at 11 a.m. CDT (Illinois time) at Sunset Memorial Park in Danville, Illinois with Fred Sigle officiating. Arrangements by Grady Funeral Home in Williamsport, Indiana. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, Rossville Church of Christ, or the donor's favorite charity.