Larry Fitzgerald was born July 9, 1946 to William and Laura Fitzgerald in Alton, Ill. Surrounded by his loved ones with his wife in his arms, he passed on July 8, 2018 in Mesa, AZ.
Survivors include his wife of 52 years, Lynn Fitzgerald; His children, Scott Fitzgerald and his wife, Brandi Fitzgerald, and daughter Rene Fitzgerald. He has eight grandchildren: Bree, Jake, Ryelle, Cody, Justin, Reign, Caden and Renascent. Larry has two Great-grandsons: Jaiden and Urijah.
Larry is survived by his siblings: Chuck, Pat, Karen and Keith. Proceeded in death by his brother, Bill.
Larry led a full life. He served for the US Navy on the USS Roosevelt during the Vietnam War where he was recognized and awarded for his heroic act of service in the extinguishing of an onboard ship fire that claimed eight lives.
Following Larry’s discharge from the Navy, he became an air traffic controller. Thirteen years later, he retired from the FAA in Indiana where he then began his career in construction. In 1980, he moved to Arizona with his family, to continue his work in construction as well as real estate. He attended college and received a degree in Electronic Technology. Larry’s next career move in 1984 was to purchase and start up the current family business: Cliff’s Welding in Mesa, AZ. Larry retired from Cliff’s Welding in 2000.
The last 18 years of Larry’s life was spent reaping the rewards from a hard working life. Lynn and Larry got to enjoy watching their grandchildren grow up and attended most family events. They traveled to visit extended family and friends, taking their time along the drive to stop and enjoy themselves at the casino, golf course or fishing hole. Larry was a fisherman at heart.
For Larry’s Celebration Of Life, please send a personal handwritten note (or email), pictures, or story of any special experiences you may have had with Larry (send and share ‘memories’ of Larry instead of flowers please).
There will be a basket to leave the letters and photos in at the funeral home or you may send them directly to the family to gather together to create a special “Book of Memories” written personally by his friends, family and coworkers.
Also, Larry did not want a sad event as a way to remember him. He wanted a more nostalgic atmosphere with friends and family gathered to share stories about the life and adventures he got to experience. So at the service, there will be an opportunity for any and all friends and family to get up and share a story or memory about Larry.
My Brother Larry, i will always love and remember, may you rest in peace with God
RIP Larry. You are missed. You was such a inspiration to everyone, so wise, patient and caring. Thank you for all the great summer memories we all had together and all the wisdom you passed on to me and Dusty. Until we meet again, enjoy fishing in heaven Larry. We love you.
Best dad anyone could of asked for thank you for stepping into my life to play that role of a father and take care of me, teaching me wisdom and pushing me to do my best, always being my biggest supporter I love you Papa.
Bud,
I met you at your mid and saw through through your worst. I loved you since the day I met you where we discussed politics, life, and the world in general. You became my grandfather-in-law as well as the only grandfather I have come to know. A man of extravagant stories and a life well lived. I wish we could see you be the Papa of our children but I know you have had a well lived life full of touching others the same way you impacted me. I promise you the promises I have already made as well as to help with granny the way you wish. I love you, and I have big shoes to fill to give Reign the life she deserves and Sir I promise you I will. I love you, may you rest and finally be at peace after the journey we have endured these last few months . I can say one thing, you were my best friend since shortly after meeting you and I wish we had more time. I love you and may you rest in peace.
I always remember the summer when we went to the Ozarks and your sailor hat went flying when wewere in the boat, I do not remember if you or my dad was driving. Thanks for this and many other memories and your love for Aunt Lynn!!!
RIP Larry. You were a great neighbor to have while I lived in Mesa. I got the news from Bree and tried to tough it out. But broke down in tears after. Larry always helped me If I was in a bind or just wanted to talk. Always super friendly waving to me when I am out front. Just a good genuine and overall awesome guy. Wish I could be at the service but dont think I can keep my composure. I am sorry for the loss.
Sincerely,
Justin Hagan
Larry my brother, as we always joked my other brother, catch a big one in Heaven, rest in peace in Gods house, will miss you the rest of my life, Love you forever
My wife Betty and I enjoyed many good times with Lynn and Larry when they were in the Indianapolis area and Larry and I were air traffic controllers. I helped Larry build his home near. Danville IN. We drank many beers together. RIP.