Word has been received that J.W. “Bill” Fitzgerald, 87, passed away Wednesday, December 26, 2012 on the family farm where he was born May 23, 1925. He was the son of Ed and Frances Fitzgerald.[it-exchange-member-content membership_ids=”485,313″]
In 1946 Bill and JoAnne Boles were married.
Mr. Fitzgerald was a well-known and respected farmer/stockman in the area. He was a pioneer member of the Liberty School Community. As boys, he and his brother Joe delivered water to Liberty School on the home section. Most of his children also attended Liberty School. In 2008 the home place was recognized as a Century Farm of Kansas.
Bill was a member of the Liberal High School Class of 1944. He was a World War II Veteran, European Theater, Purple Heart recipient, an American Legion member, a lifetime member of the Saint Anthony Parish (instrumental in helping build two churches), and a member of the Knights of Columbus.
Over the years, Bill served with various boards including the Liberty School Board and Seward County Fair Board. He was also a 4-H leader.
Mr. Fitzgerald is survived by his wife JoAnne; children Mike Fitzgerald and wife Annette, Tom Fitzgerald and wife Kathy, Mark Fitzgerald and wife Elaine, all of Liberal, John Fitzgerald of Rolla, Elizabeth Harris and Mike Vincent of Hays, and Martha Fitzgerald and Wayne Pritchard, Marie Sciacca and husband Tom and Alice Fitzgerald, all of Trinidad, Co.; his 13 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; brother Dr. E.J. Fitzgerald and wife Mary of Wichita; and brother-in-law E. Paul Boles and wife Patsy of Liberal.
Mr. Fitzgerald was a good husband, father, friend and neighbor.
Private services were attended Saturday, December 29, 2012 at Saint Anthony’s Catholic Church.
Memorials: American Legion, Post #80, and Wounded Warrior Foundation in care of Brenneman Funeral Home, 1212 W. Second, Liberal, Ks 67901. Condolences may be sent to the family online.[/it-exchange-member-content]