2014 – “Jef” Fitzgerald

How do you come by the nickname “Jef”?

My full name is James Edward Fitzgerald. My initials are JEF, which is where my nickname comes from.

Where are you from, what is your family life?

I am a lifelong resident of Norwell and married to my High School sweetheart Robbin, who teaches at the Vinal Elementary School. We have a son Stephen, and a daughter Karen.

I attended Norwell Schools and Wentworth Institute of Technology.

What have you been up to?

I started J.E. Fitzgerald Housesmith, Inc. 30 years ago, specializing in Residential Remodeling and Custom Homes. In that time we have built and remodeled hundreds of homes in Norwell and the surrounding communities.

I was on the Norwell Call Fire Department for 31 years, serving 16 years as Deputy Fire Chief.

I have served for over 20 years on the Cushing Memorial Hall Board of Directors and currently serve as Chairman. During that time I have overseen several major renovation projects including the installation of an elevator, air condition and the complete restoration of the exterior of the building.

I have served two “stints” on Norwell’s Capital Budget Committee, twice serving as Chairman.

I am a Charter member the Norwell Antique Fire truck Association and continue to enjoy bringing Santa to Christmas on the Common and neighborhoods parties.

I have served on the Permanent Building and Maintenance Committee.

I have served on the Board of Directors for the North and South Rivers Watershed Association.

I have served on two interview committees in Norwell, first for the current Building Inspector and recently for the newly appointed Facilities Director.

I currently serve  on the Board of Trustees for the United Church of Christ, Norwell and spearheading a major renovation project at that building.

So in your free time, what do you like to do?

In my free time I enjoy boating, and working around my house and yard.