St. Henry's

How does one adequately and properly pay tribute to our greatly loved music director, Tim Fitzmaurice, who crossed the waters of death and arrived on a new and welcoming shore this past Tuesday, June 10th. He was a dedicated family man, cherished by his loving children and devoted wife, who was ever at his side. He was a respected educator beloved by all his associates and students. He was an example of courageous faith to all of us at St. Henry’s as he encouraged us to let our songs be our prayers whenever we gathered for eucharist. He did all these things wonderfully well even when he was so critically ill. His love for those he served and his sense of responsibility to us all was a source of inspiration especially during these past few months. And why? Because, first and foremost, he was above all a man of deep prayer without the outer trappings of piety. That was apparent in the music he created and selected for our worship. It was especially apparent in the way he led and shared the Easter mysteries with us this year. He was also a man with a zest for life, not a dull conformist; he put his heart and soul into everything he did, never allowing routine to sap his liveliness or keep him from sharing his keen wit and wisdom. Next, he was a man of deep humanity; always available to listen to those who sought his advice, especially young people looking for assistance in their education and formation. He especially made himself available to those who wanted to use their musical gifts to offer praise to God. And lastly, he was a humble person, aware of his own failings and unable to stand pomposity and insincerity. Instead he quietly went about the self-sacrificing work of enriching the La Salle Community and enhancing the worship at St. Henry’s. How does one properly pay tribute to a man such as this? We do so by letting our song be our prayer, by zestfully living lives that are characterized by service, humility and great humanity. We do so by being people of deep prayer, answering God’s call to holiness - as we believe Tim did so admirably well.

Tim’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of so many at St. Henry’s but we are so appreciative of the gift that he has been to our faith community. Our prayers of gratitude go with him on his journey to eternal life. Our prayers of comfort and support are with his wife, Jane and the children Erin, Elizabeth and T.J.