Born in Kansas City on September 9, 1944, to William and Mary Jane (Culver) Fitzgerald, Ed lived most of his life in the city he called home. He graduated from Bishop Hogan High School in 1962 and, two years later, began a long and proud career as a union pipefitter with Local 533. He retired in 2006 and was honored as a lifetime member of the union in 2014.
A few years after high school, Ed discovered a lasting passion for sprint car racing. He became an avid fan and local driver, stepping away only from 1968 to 1970 when he was drafted into the U.S. Army and served during the Vietnam War. He returned to the sport and the track with the same enthusiasm he brought to everything he loved.
Ed was married to his wife, Catherine, for 33 years until her passing in 2007. In later years he shared many happy times with his dear friend Gloria, who passed away in 2022. He is survived by his only child, his son Joe; his sisters Elaine, Teresa, and Christine; and his brothers John and Danny. He was preceded in death by his sister Barbara.
Those who knew Ed remember him as a kind and caring father and friend—someone always willing to lend a hand when others needed help. His generosity, steady presence, and quiet willingness to show up for the people in his life left a lasting mark on those who were fortunate enough to know him.
Visitation will be held at McGilley & Sheil Funeral Home, 11924 East 47th Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64133, on November 8, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. John Francis Regis Parish, 8941 James A Reed Rd, Kansas City, Missouri 64138, on November 9, 2026, at 11:00 am. Followed by a committal Service at Mt Olivet Catholic Cemetery, 7601 Blue Ridge Blvd, Raytown, Missouri 64138.
