FALMOUTH – Francis J. “Frank” Fixaris, 71, well-known local sportscaster, died Friday, Jan. 12, 2006, at his home. He was born May 6, 1934, in Torrington, Conn., a son of Frank and Josephine Fogerty Fixaris. He graduated from Torrington High School in 1951 and from Emerson College, Boston in 1956 where he received a bachelor of science degree. Frank had worked for WSCH radio and for other various local radio stations during the early years of his career. He than went to work for WGME as a sportscaster from 1965 to 1995 where he retired as sports director. Up until his death, Frank was the co-host of the “Shoe & Fix” morning radio sports show. He had been the early voice of the Maine Mariners and for those that knew him, he had always been the “consummate professional.” Throughout his career Frank always emphasized coverage of local schoolboy and schoolgirl athletics. He also enjoyed the volunteer work that he did for the Iris Network. Following a near death experience resulting from a fire in 1960, Frank became a strong supporter of local fire departments. He was an avid golfer playing at both Riverside Municipal Golf Course and Vall Halla Country Club. Throughout his career, he received numerous awards and citations for contributions to sports. He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Barbara J. Ritchie Fixaris of Falmouth; one son, Michael C. Fixaris of Orono; a brother, Richard J. Fixaris and his wife, Frances, of New Smyrna Beach, Fla.; and a sister-in-law, Patricia Ritchie of Rockland. Visiting hours will be held 2-5 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 17, the Jones, Rich & Hutchins Funeral Home, 199 Woodford St., Portland. A private funeral will be held Wednesday. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his name to the Portland Fire Dept., 380 Congress St., Portland, ME 04101 or to your local fire department. Those wishing may make on line tributes to Frank at MEM.com.
FRANCIS J. ‘FRANK’ FIXARIS
