Boston firefighter who was a talented woodworker
CHARLESTOWN — Arthur Edward Hitchman known to all as Archie, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on December 2 at the age of 85.
Archie grew up in Charlestown with his mother Mary (Mae) and his three sisters Patricia, Mary and Carol. His father passed away when Archie was just five years old, but he carried on with a resilient spirit, embracing the tight-knit community of Charlestown and proudly calling himself a “TOWNIE.” Archie was well-loved for his gentle demeanor, unmatched work ethic and unwavering loyalty to his family and friends. At 16, Archie met the love of his life Claire McClellan. They shared a beautiful journey together, celebrating 61 years of marriage and raising three children: Arthur, David and Jill.
Archie was a proud Boston Firefighter, spending many of his career years in the South End. Later in his career he came home to Charlestown working at Ladder 9 and ultimately retiring from Engine 50. His time with the fire department brought him lifelong friendships and brotherhood. One of his favorite places to frequent was The Halligan Club and the people that filled it. Archie cherished Friday nights, bringing home Kowloon to his family and creating memories with friends on New Years Eve, Bunker Hill parade, Papoose Pond, The Family Picnic, North Conway, Hampton Beach, Saratoga, Golfing with the Raiders at MT HOOD and so many more.
Beyond firefighting, Archie was a master finish carpenter and a talented woodworker. He approached his craft with patience, precision and a perfectionist’s touch leaving a legacy of woodwork.
Archie’s greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted husband to Claire and a beloved father to Arthur and his wife Lauren; David; and Jill and her husband Michael Leeman. Archie took immense pride in his nine grandchildren with whom he was blessed to see almost everyday of their lives. He is predeceased by his parents Mary and Arthur Hitchman; sisters Patricia Russell, Mary Bird and Carol Dwyer; along with his sister in laws Carol McClellan and Eileen McClellan. Leaving behind his brother-in-laws Michael Dwyer and William McClellan; his dear friends Pat and Paul Reynolds; nieces, nephews and many friends who he loved so dearly.
Visiting hours will be held on Friday, December 6 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Gately Funeral Home, 79 West Foster St., Melrose. A funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, December 7 at 10 a.m. at Saint Francis De Sales Parish, 303 Bunker Hill St., Charlestown. Interment will follow at Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Archie’s memory to the Boston Firefighters Cancer Foundation, 55 Hallett St., Dorchester, MA 02122. Visit gatelyfh.com.
