Joe was born on August 30, 1936, in Springfield, the son of Marvel Edward and Margaret Josephine Dirksen Fitzgerald. He married Mary Schlosser on August 22, 1959, at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Springfield.
Joe graduated from Cathedral Boys High School in 1954. Joe proudly served his country in the Air National Guard for 8 years. He then went on to work for the State Journal - Register as the General Advertising Manager for 38 years. After retiring from the newspaper, Joe worked as an administrator for St. Martin De Porres for 10 years. He was a proud member of Knights of Columbus, where he would meet with his classmates from high school once a month. Joe loved working with his hands and fixing things. He was an excellent gardener who took great pride in his landscaping. Joe also enjoyed antique cars and cherished his 1933 Plymouth.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, James C. Fitzgerald.
Joe is survived by his wife, Mary; sons, Patrick John (Linda) Fitzgerald of Louisville, KY, and Daniel Joseph (Carla) Fitzgerald of Springfield; grandchildren, Benjamin, Andrew, Emily, Jack, Ryan, Connor, Kyle, and Anna; great-grandson, Matthew; siblings, Michael Fitzgerald of Minneapolis MN, and Rosemarie “Bunny” Hamilton of Springfield; and several nieces, nephews, cousins, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
Memorial contributions may be made to: St. Martin De Porres, Sacred Heart Griffin, or Blessed Sacrament School.
Visitation and Funeral Mass: Family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. on Saturday, October 5, 2024, at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 1725 S. Walnut St., Springfield, IL. A Funeral Mass will follow at 11:00 a.m. with Fr. Grant officiating.
Burial will take place on a later date at Calvary Cemetery.
