David Joseph Fitzig

   David J. Fitzig, affectionately known as "Deaf Dave," to those who knew him, embarked on his final journey on September 19, 2025. Born in the bustling city of Brooklyn, NY, he was raised in the quiet suburbs of Morris County, NJ where he lived most of his life. For the past 18 months, David resided in Alexandria, VA to begin the next chapter in his life following the passing of his beloved mother who he kept a watchful eye on in New Jersey.

   Sadly, not long after moving to Virginia to be near his brother, David's lung cancer came out of remission and his plans had to take a detour. Never a quitter when facing adversity, David dealt with this latest challenge head on with the full support of his family and attentive medical team at Inova Fairfax Hospital. But then that day came when David knew it was time to fulfill his final journey and he did so without reservation, not being one for long goodbyes.

   David was a curious and determined individual, brimming with ideas and enthusiasm that ignited conversations wherever he traversed. And despite his deafness, he had a remarkable social gift for engaging those around him, hearing and deaf alike, drawing people into his orbit with his infectious energy. His passion for social connection enriched the lives of friends and strangers alike, as he formed bonds that transcended the ordinary. He was an active fixture within the deaf community, regularly attending Deaf Chat socials and events.

   David's passion for working on cars and trucks became a hallmark of his persona. He was a self-proclaimed master mechanic, very skilled at taking things apart in pursuit of fixing them, however, he often left the reassembly process on "the To Do List." Ironically, each of his mechanical endeavors mirrored his approach to life and people— fearless, curious, and resolute in his quest for understanding.

   David is survived by his older brother, Louis; cousins, Janice, Joseph, Jessica, Jennifer, and Joe Jr.; uncles Clarence and Michael; along with his in-laws, Rita, Jack, and Shoushan. Each of these family members will carry forward David's legacy, remembering a man who touched their lives with humor, love, and sometimes "creative differences". Though his parents, Irving and Charmaine, have since departed this world, David’s essence remains intertwined with the memory of their love and guidance.

   As we bid farewell to David, we celebrate the spirit of a man who faced both life and death with unwavering courage and an open heart 

   In lieu of flowers and gifts to the family, we instead welcome you to make a donation to either of the following non-profit cancer research and support organizations in David's honor:  Pink Wings of Hope (Cancer support and resources for the Deaf); and the American Cancer Society (National cancer research and support).

Pink Wings of Hope | DEAF, Inc.