Frank G. Fitzgerald's Obituary
Big Rapids Frank Gavin Fitzgerald, age 78, of Big Rapids went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, September 21, 2011 surrounded by his loving family. He was born January 22, 1933 in Grand Rapids, the son of Paul and Margaret (Gavin) Fitzgerald. Frank lived most of his life on the family Centennial Farm where his grandfather was born. He served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955. On June 16, 1956, Frank married Shirley Ann Hurst at St. Annes Catholic Church in Paris. He began working for the City of Big Rapids public works in 1968 and retired in 1993 as supervisor of the city garage. In retirement Frank was a founding member of Big Rapids Antique Farm and Power Club. His hobby was buying, selling and refurbishing antique tractors. He also enjoyed traveling to Ireland, Alaska, Germany, Hawaii and Idaho. Frank is survived by his wife Shirley, six children, Stephen (Karen) Fitzgerald, of Big Rapids, Sue (Joe) Lenahan of Big Rapids, Carol (Dennis) Herwy of Idaho, Diane (John) Zimmerman of Paris, Mark (Anja) Fitzgerald of Big Rapids, Brendan (Tammi) Fitzgerald of Cedar Springs, 22 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren. Also surviving is one sister Margaret Modrow of Vestaburg and one brother-in-law Jerry Simon of Rogers Heights. Frank was preceded in death by his parents and one sister Mary Simon. A mass of Christian burial will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, September 24, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Big Rapids with Father Lam T. Le, celebrant. Visitation will be Friday from 5-8 p.m. at the church with Rosary being recited at 7:30 p.m. Interment will be at Mt. Carmel Cemetery. Memorials may be made in Franks memory to the American Lung Association. Arrangements are by Mohnke Funeral Home.
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