Kenneth Fitzgerald, Sr.

It is with great sorrow to announce that Kenneth "Kenny" Fitzgerald, Sr., 73, passed away at 4:14 p.m. on Saturday, June 2, 2018 at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield, Illinois. Kenny was born in Springfield on February 15, 1945. He was the son of John L. and Mary E. Clark Fitzgerald. He married Pamela Kolaz, his wife of 52 years, on June 26, 1965 in Springfield. Kenny attended Lanphier High School and was employed as a truck driver for various firms, including United Van Lines for 18 years. He had a tremendous work ethic, something that was easily observed by those closest to him. As a father, he fostered in his sons at a young age many things, including a love of both hunting and country music, to name a coupletwo qualities that continued for the remainder of his life. A passionate Cubs fan, he witnessed the dramatic ending of their World Series draught in 2016. Fittingly, on the night of his passing, the Cubs defeated the Mets 7-1 in 14 innings. Kenny is survived by his wife, Pamela of Springfield; three sons, Kenneth, Jr. (wife, Tammi) Fitzgerald of Springfield, William E. (wife, Micki) Fitzgerald of Centerville, OH, and Anthony C. (wife, Kimberly) Fitzgerald of Riverton; six grandchildren, Colman, Katie, Kelsey, Haley, Kennedy and Allie; one great-grandson, Brody; brother, Glen E. (wife, Pat) Fitzgerald of New Berlin; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; and four brothers, Tommy, Gene, John and Donald Fitzgerald. The family would like to express its deepest gratitude to Kennys longtime doctor, Dr. Daniel Lanzotti, as well as all the staff at Memorial who cared for him in his final days. Cremation was accorded by Butler Cremation Tribute Center prior to ceremonies. Memorial Gathering: Family will receive friends from 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 14, 2018 at Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. Private family burial will be held at Wolf Creek Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to: Memorial Home Services/Hospice, Attn: Pat Lowe, 701 N. 1st St., Springfield, IL 62718.