David Bruce Fitts

David Bruce Fitts, 69, of Bradenton, Florida, formerly from Marcy, NY, (grew up in New Hartford, NY) passed away on October 14, 2025. He was Born in Utica, New York, on February 7, 1956, he was the son of the late Minnette T. Fitts and Fred Earl Fitts. David, affectionately known as Dave, Disco Dave, Hulk, Uncle Dave, Jimbo, & Jimmy Jim was a beloved loyal former husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend whose life was characterized by his unwavering integrity and kindness. He never met a stranger because once people talked to him, they became a friend.

A proud alumni of New Hartford High School & B.O.C.E.S. in New Hartford as well as attending Mohawk Valley Community College. Dave was a respected entrepreneur. He was the esteemed owner and operator of Fitts' Body Shop in Marcy, New York, for over 25 years, where he earned numerous awards and certifications. Having a successful business allowed him to give generously to his community along the way. Upon retiring to Florida, his love for craftsmanship led him to establish the Odds and Ends Handyman Service, where he continued to demonstrate his remarkable talents. He helped so many people with upgrading and maintaining their homes with his amazing skills. He was second to none on knowing just about every craft you could think of.

Dave's passion for athletics and nutrition was evident through his active involvement in helping to coach various sports such as soccer, football and judging bodybuilding competitions. In his later senior years, he participated in bodybuilding competitions himself, such as the Tampa Bay Classic. This was an amazing accomplishment, and he was very proud of it. His dedication was second to none. He placed in many of his competitions even getting 1st place at one.

He wore many hats in his life. His creative spirit shone through his construction of tiny houses and his unique artistic designs in home refurbishments. A man of many interests and talents. He was intrigued with Tiny houses so he built one and made it off grid with solar power. Dave also dedicated time to the Humane Society, reflecting his deep love for animals.

He leaves behind his sons and daughters-in-law Jason Fitts & Jill Ksiadz and Justin & Katie Fitts, and his treasured granddaughter, Harper Fitts. He is also survived by his brother William (Bill) & Nadine Fitts, brother Warren (Ren) & Patsy Fitts, sister Corinne Sousa, and sister Darlene Pelton-Kildow & Mike Kildow along with a host of nieces, nephews, Joshua (Josh) Pelton, Michael (Mikey) Kildow, Natasha & Matt Hill, Brittany, Madelyn, Winston, Tyler Goode, Stephen, Chelsea, Kasen Fitts, Danielle, Landon, Cameron, Jamison Thomas, Derek, Melissa, Skyla, Saradi, Kali, Derek Jr., Kolby, Paxton Sousa, Richy Sousa, Ryan & Elizabeth (Liz) Fitts, Chris & Alisha Fitts, Sean, Kelsea, Wrenley Fitts, Jonathan & Casey Jackson, Allison & Abigail Gulteri and dear friends Tim Oneil, Kevin Seth, Janice Patane, Paula Anderson, Pam & Tony Leone, Dean & Jeanine Brown, Rick Bates, Kevin Geddes and so many more.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother Fred Fitts III, brothers-in-law Garret L. Pelton and Richard Sousa, and his long-term partner and best friend, Debra Leone.

A CELEBRATION OF LIFE SERVICE will be held on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at 10:30 am at
Robert Toale and Sons Funeral Home 1221 53rd Ave. East, Bradenton, Florida 134203.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the local Humane Society in memory of Dave, honoring his commitment to animal welfare.

The family wishes to express their gratitude to Pastor Joe Marin for his spiritual support and devotion along the way and to Robert Toale and Sons Funeral Home for their compassionate assistance during this difficult time. David's legacy of love, laughter, wisdom, and generosity will continue to inspire those who knew him.

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