Eugene Joseph Fitzgerald

1930 ∼ 2019

On Thursday, April 4, 2019, Eugene “Gene” Fitzgerald left his 88 year visit here on Earth surrounded by his loving family and departed for his eternal home in heaven to join his many friends and relatives who left before him, including his parents, Joseph and Mary Fitzgerald, his brother, Leonard, and sister, Dolores. Gene was born and raised on a farm near Osman, in Manitowoc County, Wisconsin. He was a 1948 graduate of Valders High School. He served in the U.S. Air Force from January 1949, to September 1952, during the Korean War Conflict. After several years of college, Gene began working for the Wisconsin Department of Revenue where he held several management positions, from which he retired in 1992. He resided in Milwaukee from 1952 to 1971. On June 10, 1995, he married the love of his life Marge Jones and together they lived in Madison until moving to Kenosha in 1998 for his retirement years. Gene’s life-long hobby was working on home improvement projects for Marge and Gene’s home, plus those of friends and family. Gene is survived by his loving wife, Marjorie; his son, Jerry; three lovely step daughters, Sandra (David) Ricchio, Kim (Doug) Davis, and Kathy (Kurt) Flint; and eight grandchildren. In accordance with Gene’s wishes, funeral services and interment will be private. A memorial Mass to commemorate Gene’s great life on Earth will be scheduled at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial remembrances to Hospice Alliance, Inc., 10220 Prairie Ridge Blvd, Pleasant Prairie, WI 53158, would be appreciated by the family.Proko Funeral Home & Crematory5111-60th StreetKenosha, WI 53144Phone: (262) 654-3533Visit & Sign Gene’s Online Memorial Book at:www.prokofuneralhome.com

Condolences

Sheila M. Robinson April 12, 2019
It is with great sorrow that I am sending my condolences on your recent loss. As one of Jehovah's Witnesses, I and would like to share a scripture that has benefited me and many people in time of grief. God reassures us of something wonderful in the Bible at Acts 24:15. It says, "There is going to be a resurrection." Along with God's promise to us at Revelation 21:3, 4 of sorrow, death, and pain being done away with permanently.It is my hope that this bit of information is of comfort to you. Please be sure to find further information regarding the resurrection at: JW.ORGMay God be with you.
Nancy Hammond-McWhinney April 7, 2019
There is a song with lyrics that say "When I get where I'm going, there'll be only happy tears....When I get where I'm going, don't cry for me down here". Today we will try to have only happy tears and be reminded that Gene was ready for this journey, even though we never would be ready for him to go. He has been part of our family in ways that cannot be measured. Despite our 30 year age gap, we also had a friendship like no other. We will cherish our countless memories. A piece of Gene will always be with us - until we see him again. Love Brent and Nancy McWhinney and Family
Marsha Jaehnig April 7, 2019
We are so saddened for the loss of one special man. Uncle Gene was certainly one of a kind. We are so thankful for the time we spent with Uncle Gene and his beautiful wife Marge. Every summer we would visit them at their home and Gene would always have a few projects for us to help him with. These were special times I will truly miss. During this time I learned a lot about his growing up on the family farm. He was my mother’s younger brother and he filled in (and I might say very colorfully) the history of the Fitzgeralds of Oseman. This man was a master carpenter, electrician and anything else he put his mind to. He was a very giving man especially with his time and many talents. When we decided to remodel our kitchen in California he even helped me design it by mail.Gene was one class act and will truly be missed by all who knew him and loved him.Love, Dennis & Marsha
Amber Drones April 6, 2019
This is hard to write because I wish I had the perfect words, but I don't. I do not know even if there are any words to describe how I feel and what I want to say.You are an amazing man and have brought such greatness to this earth. I am so thankful that my grandma was able to find someone like you to take care of her, love her, and give her such joy that she felt she was missing. You made my childhood that much more memorable and enjoyable. Playing with Lincoln logs and dominos. The magic trick boxes you kept along with checkers. Waking up in the morning having biscuits and gravy, and for dinner the most delicious chicken Alfredo. My stomach and tastebuds will forever be grateful.Together you and grandma made Christmas Eve an occasion for the whole family to enjoy. Because of you our family would come together at least once a year and for the most part put there differences aside for us kids. I thank you for giving us that as children, we needed it.Through all my drama as a teen and figuring out who I have become as an adult you never cut me out even though I came with headaches and stress. I always felt safe and comfortable coming to your home. My grandpa gene you can do anything you wanted to do. You knew how to cook, make jokes, help with taxes, make and build anything. My handy grandpa.Not to mention how incredibly handsome you are!I love you so much and wish I could be there to hold your hand and tell you in person. I hope you are keeping in the best spirits knowing you have accomplished so much and brought so many smiles to our family. You are amazing and I know there is a special place for you where you can be comfortable with no pain. Thank you for loving my grandma. She is lucky to have shared a life full of the grandest memories. It is rare to find love that puts you at peace. I think you two had that. I hope Lyle and I can care for each other and adore each other the way you two do. I love you grandpa gene, and you will always have a place in my heart.
Luke Flint April 6, 2019
Goodbyes are never easy, but I think this one is harder than most. Grandpa, you were a kind, gentle, and caring man. Thoughtful and calculated in your responses, you were the epitome of grace and wisdom. I can never recall seeing you unprepared for anything life had in store. Although you will be missed by your friends and family on Earth, I know you were called home to help God with the handy work and the carpentry in the kingdom of heaven. Until we meet again!
Joe and Renee Brotz April 5, 2019
Our deepest sympathy. Uncle Gene was a true gentleman. He was always so kind to us.We are so sorry for your loss. Love, Joe and Renee Brotz
Dave and Sandy Ricchio April 5, 2019
Sorry to see you go Gene.You will be deeply missed by your family and friends that loved and appreciated you every day that made up a lifetime.You married Marge, and her girls became your children.You knew and loved Marge as a young man but the stars aligned years later.And how wonderful it was when you and Marge started your married life together. A long lost dream came true , becoming the best that life could offer. A life that included grandchildren and great grandchildren . Through love and commitment they become your DNA joining with Marge.I’ll never find a friend ( and father-in law ) that could come close to meeting a good guy like you; helping others, making them happy; from fixing , making ,doing whatever those grateful recipients needed from tax returns to re- working or making a kitchen . I , family members , friends , neighbors, and many , many others were the lucky recipients of your giving .You helped them all Gene !Thank You , thank you, from all of us ; we will miss you forever !! Dave and Sandy & all those touched by your love and kindness.
Courtney Kopesky Sperer April 5, 2019
As my grandfather was lifted up to the heavens this week, we continue to hold onto every memory of love, laughter and joy that he brought into our lives. We will continue to love and honor him as he was always such a genuine, kind soul. He was our family’s household staple being the family Santa, carpenter, electrician, handy man, accountant, bartender and was the most fun dinner date. Most of all he taught us all what love looked like when you have a partner in life. His life was our grandma and we are all so lucky to have had that example. While we lost an amazing part of our family, heaven has gained the most beautiful angel. I will continue to send my love and light to you as you watch over us and send your love and light back. We love you.
Kayla Fitzgerald April 5, 2019
First I like to start off by saying being Genes only biological grandchild. I am glad to have had him in my life! Didn't see him much when I was growing up. Being able to reunite after so many years of not seeing him! From what I remember of my grandfather he was very talented with being able to build anything! The stories and pictures of him climbing a scalfold shortly after his heart operation during the construction of his retirement home! Yes my grandfather was determined to do anything and he sure did!Grandpa just know I miss and love you! Glad your not suffering. We will meet again someday! Love Kayla
Mark & Diane Brotz April 4, 2019
What a great man. A wonderful sense of humor. He knew how to have a good time. We had such great time with Gene and Marge. He was always willing to lend a hand. A man who really loved a challenge no matter what the issue. We feel very fortunate to have known him. Love Mark & Diane.
Yvonne Jones April 4, 2019
Gene will be missed. He was a TERRIFIC brother-in-law. A very giving person. A true Gentleman. I posted a picture of Gene, Dick & myself playing Catch Phrase He had us laughing so much. The Brotz Family loved him.