Tributes paid to veteran market trader and Northampton town legend, 'Fitzy', who died suddenly

Tributes have been paid to a veteran market trader and Northampton town legend who died suddenly this morning (Friday November 4).

Eamonn 'Fitzy' Fitzpatrick, aged 72, sadly died this morning at 6.30am with his close family by his bedside after falling ill through the night on Wednesday (November 2), according to his son Joe.

Fitzy’s children – Kelly and Joe – released a statement on social media. It says: “It is with heavy hearts that we are announcing the heartbreaking news of our Dad’s passing. Dad became unwell on Wednesday night and his death was very peaceful, with his family by his side. There are few words right now to express the pain but know he was loved by many. Shine bright Dad, our hearts will be forever holding onto a place that will never be filled.”

Speaking to the Chron, Joe Fitzpatrick paid a further tribute to his father. He said: “He came from an Irish family but was born and bred in Northampton. He was proud to be from Northampton. He loved Northampton.

"He was in the town selling fruit and veg from the age of 12, he never done a day's work anywhere else. He loved his career. He ran his own fruit and veg stall for 43 years. He used to say he always changed with the times and that's why he is a market trader. He was friends with different people from different communities, he always used to treat them with respect. When people were down on their luck he would help them out. He used to like lads working for him and teaching them how to make money – that all comes from working on the market and learning the business. He was always upbeat about Northampton. He was proud of Northampton. Only recently has he feared for the future of the town and market. We are going to miss him. He will be missed by the people of Northampton. He wanted the market to survive for the people of Northampton."

Tributes have flooded in on social media for the town legend, who had been working on the market for 60 years selling fruit and vegetables.

Peterborough market stall trader B&C fresh fruit & veg said: "Just had some sad news. Poor old Fitzy passed away last night. R.I.P Fitzy you will be missed by a lot of people. My condolences to all is family."

Elliott Jones, from Tony Jones Florists, said: “Goodnight, Captain! We will all miss you. A true legend of Northampton.”

Councillor James Hill, of the Billing and Rectory Farm ward, also paid his respects on Twitter.

The councillor wrote: "Just heard the sad news @eamonnfitzy passed away last night. Huge loss to our town and Northampton’s Market Square which he has been a cornerstone of for so many years. My thoughts are with his family and friends this morning."

Councillor Emma Roberts, of the Delapre and Rushmere ward, said: "Oh my gosh. I was only sat next to him on Tuesday night. How incredibly sad. My thoughts are with all of his friends and family."

Northampton Town BID said: “Very sad news. Fitzy was a proud Northamptonian who always wanted the best for the town. He will be greatly missed.”

Julie Teckman, owner at Vintage Guru, said: “Very, very sad news. Fitzy was a much-loved member of the town community who was never afraid to take on authority to protect his beloved Market Square. The town will be poorer for his loss and he will be much missed. Thank you, Fitzy, for all your hard work. Sending love and condolences to his family xx.”

Fitzy, who was an active voice on Twitter, had in his social media bio: "No matter where I wander...wherever I may roam...in my heart I'll always know...Northampton is my home"

Rest in peace, Fitzy.