Andrew J. Fitzgerald Jr. passed away peacefully on November 15, 2018. He is survived by his “princess” Gloria of 62 years, daughter Dawn Huffman and husband Tim, son Michael and wife Ann, grandchildren Tegan, Caitlin, Kelly, and Jim, great grandchildren Emerson, Adalyn, and Jonah, his brother Bill and his wife Maureen along with several nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his mother Edna and father Andrew Sr. and his beautiful daughter Lori and sister Nancy.
Andy (Fitz) was a retired sales engineer for 30 plus years for Federal Products. He also kept busy after retirement working for Bryan Mager’s car wholesale business.
Andy was a sports enthusiast, especially being a season ticket holder for the New England Patriots and the Denver Broncos when he moved to Colorado. He loved to play tennis and was an avid fan at his children and grandchildren's events all through their youth activities.
Andy was an active member and volunteer in his St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church community.
Andy was always known for his quick wit and sense of humor. You could never get anything by him without a “wise” comment.
Finally, the crown jewel of Andy’s life and something that never came to life for his family until 10 years ago was his involvement in the greatest small boat rescue in Coast Guard history as depicted in the Disney move “The Finest Hours”. Andy was the last surviving rescuer of the amazing story and always talked about it as if it was “just his job”. To quote Casey Sherman author of “The Finest Hours” the world truly lost a hero. Andy “Fitzy” Fitzgerald’s courage and kindness will not be forgotten by me or the millions of readers and moviegoers that marveled at their story. It was Andy that truly prompted me to write “The Finest Hours”.
Andy’s last few months were happily spent at Peakview Assisted Living where the staff was excellent.
Andy’s visitation will be held at Fairmount funeral home 430 S. Quebec St Denver from 4pm to 6pm on Tuesday November 20. A mass of Christion burial will be held on Wednesday November 21 at 10:30 am St Michael church 19099 East Floyd Avenue in Aurora. Burial will be private at Fairmount. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to The Alzheimer’s Association 455 Sherman Street Denver Colorado 80203.