Mike was the devoted father of Karen Fitzgerald Bradford (John Jr.); loving brother of Donald Fitzgerald (Sherry), Dennis Fitzgerald (Sandra), and Diane Fitzgerald Borden; and a proud grandfather of John III, James, Katherine, and Elizabeth Bradford. He was also a beloved godfather to Ryan Fitzgerald and Lauren Barbir.
He was preceded in death by the love of his life of 42 years, Adele Aniau Fitzgerald; his son, Michael W. Fitzgerald Jr.; his granddaughter Lauren Fitzgerald; and his parents, Doris Barbir Courtin and William John Fitzgerald, Jr. Following Adele’s passing, the Lord blessed Mike to share the remainder of his life with Kathleen Westbrook.
Mike graduated from St. Aloysius High School and Southeastern Louisiana University, where he enjoyed being on the track team as a pole-vaulter. He was active throughout his college years as a student leader, cheerleader and proud member of Kappa Delta Tau Fraternity.
His Catholic faith was central to his life. Mike was a longtime member & Co-Captain of Manresa Retreat Group 18, served for many years as a lector at St. Philip Neri Church in Metairie, and served on the finance committee at St. Claire Catholic Church in Waveland, MS. He had a generous heart and quietly gave to numerous organizations he cared about.
Mike enjoyed life fully. He was an avid golfer, a proud member of several golf associations, & in his younger years enjoyed the camaraderie & traditions of Mardi Gras, participating in several krewes. He proudly served his country as a six-year member of the United States Marine Corps Reserve.
Thirty-eight years ago, Mike had the life-changing experience of meeting Dr. Bob Smith and Bill Wilson. That encounter changed the course of his life for the better & became a meaningful part of the legacy he leaves behind.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend services at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd., New Orleans, LA, on Friday, September 25, 2026. Visitation will be from 12:00 p.m. until the Mass begins at 2:00 p.m. A reception will follow. Mike will be laid to rest in Lake Lawn Park.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to Manresa Retreat House, P.O. Box 89, Convent, LA 70723.
