Joseph Fitzgerald Obituary

Fitzgerald, Joseph E. Passed away at his home in Yuma, AZ on June 15th, surrounded by his entire family. Joe was born to Art and Nell Fitzgerald on December 27th, 1936 in Chicago, IL. He retired as Sergeant Major from the United States Marine Corps in 1985 after proudly serving 30 years of honorable service. During his time in the Marine Corps, Joe served two tours of duty in Vietnam. He was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal V device for valor and heroism. After his years of service, Joe worked at Marine Air Federal Credit Union as Director of Member Services for nearly 15 years. He was a member of the American Legion Post #19, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and past Commandant of the Marine Corps League Territorial Detachment #635. Over the years Joe enjoyed spending time with his friends at the Legion, golfing, watching and coaching his children and grandchildren in sports, but most of all Joe loved just being with his family. Joe is survived by his wife of forty-five years, Rosemary; children, Charles (Melissa) Fitzgerald of Queen Creek, AZ, Melissa Fitzgerald of San Diego, CA, Tracy (Jaimey) Polk, Philip (Jennifer) Fitzgerald , William (Jamie) Fitzgerald all of Yuma, AZ; as well as his 13 grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters, Denise Jacobs, Ethel McDonough, Geri (Tom) Cousins; brother, Bob (Marge) Fitzgerald; sister-in-law, Kaye Fitzgerald; and brother-in-law, John (Marge) Flinn; as well as 29 nieces and nephews. Joe was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Ed (Rose) Fitzgerald, Ray Fitzgerald; brothers-in-law, Chuck McDonough and Michael Jacobs, nieces Jackie and Peggy; nephews, Jimmy and Ray. A memorial mass for Joe will be said Saturday, July 20th at St. Symphorosa Church, 10:30 a.m., 62nd and Austin Avenue Chicago, IL.

Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Jul. 19, 2013.
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