The BJCP is deeply saddened to hear of the sudden and unexpected passing of Tom Fitzpatrick of Batavia, IL. Tom was a Grand Master judge, NHC medalist, and the BJCP’s first Competition Director. He helped create the first set of BJCP-branded materials, including the style guidelines and scoresheet. Tom continued to be active in the BJCP, volunteering as an exam grader and helping with style research, as well as mentoring new judges. The BJCP is a better organization because of Tom’s work.
Even as we remember Tom’s accomplishments, we really remember him as a genuinely nice guy and someone you’d want to enjoy a beer with. So while keeping Tom and his wife Luann in your thoughts and prayers, please raise a pint to Tom (he would have enjoyed an altbier or dunkel) and remember him the way he would have wanted – as a fellow beer lover, brewer, and friend. We’ll miss you, pal.