A former Bishop of the Salina Catholic Diocese has passed away.

The diocese Sunday evening announced the passing of Bishop Emeritus George K. Fitzsimons. The Bushop, wh would have celebrated his 85th birthday this September, passed away earlier on Sunday.

In sharing this news Bishop Weisenburger made the following statement:

“Bishop Fitzsimons was loved by all. In his 20 years of devoted ministry to the people of the Salina Diocese he established many lasting friendships. I believe, however, that he would be the first to teach us that the most lasting relationship is the one we establish with Jesus. His greatest concern, and greatest joy, was leading others in the ways of Gospel hope, mercy, and love.”

Funeral arrangements will be announced as they become finalized.

Some of Bishop Fitzsimons life milestones:

* Born on Sept. 4, 1928
* Ordained a Priest for Kansas City-St. Joseph on March 18, 1961
* Ordained Auxiliary Bishop of Kansas City-St. Joseph on July 3, 1975
* Installed as Bishop of Salina on May 29, 1984
* Retired on Oct. 21, 2004
* Died on July 28, 2013