Jerry Jack Fitts, 60, of Fairwoods on Seven, Pinehurst, North Carolina, passed away Wednesday, January 29, 1997 at Pinehurst, after a sudden illness.
Jerry was born in Salt Lake City, Utah on March 28, 1936 to Jack Calvin Fitts and Geneve Kurland Fitts. He graduated from the University of Utah with a degree in mechanical engineering. He obtained a masters of science degree from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute with emphasis in thermodynamics and jet propulsion systems. His professional career was primarily devoted to achievements in the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) space flight programs, including senior positions as NASA's Deputy Associate Administrator for Space Communications, Division Director responsible for the Space Shuttle's External Tank, and Deputy Director of the Space Shuttle Main Engine Division. During his career in Washington D.C., Jerry received the Presidential Distinguished Executive Award from President Clinton, the Presidential Meritorious Executive Award from President Bush, NASA's Outstanding Leadership Medal and several other awards for exemplary government service. He was appointed as a Charter Member of the United States Senior Executive Service by President Carter. In the 1960's, he was responsible for engine systems design in NASA's Space Nuclear Propulsion Office. Jerry retired in 1994 to Pinehurst, North Carolina and enjoyed golfing at the Championship Pinehurst Country Club Golf Courses, where he made many good friends. Jerry's fondest memories are of coming to Utah to ski with his children and grandchildren and spending time with his family in the mountains.He is survived by his wife Hartley C. Fitts; children of a prior marriage to Anne Pettigrew Fitts, Stanford P. Fitts (wife Melanie) of Salt Lake City, Utah, Stewart C. Fitts (wife Suzie) of Las Vegas, Nevada, and Jane Anne Fitts of Salt Lake City, Utah; and eight grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held Monday, February 3, 1997 at 12 noon, at the Larkin Mortuary, 260 East South Temple, Salt Lake City, Utah.
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