Dr. Rick J Fitzgerald

Joe Denoyer - October 5, 2020 5:16 pm

Dr. Rick J Fitzgerald, 66, of Liberal, KS passed away on Saturday, October 3, 2020 at Southwest Medical Center.

Rick was born in Blackwell, OK on October 6, 1953 to Marvin and Doris Seymour Fitzgerald of Deer Creek, OK.

He married Tess Rabanal of Manila, Philippines on September 17, 1985.

Rick attended Deer Creek High School. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Biology at Central State University in Edmond, OK. Rick attended medical school at Bicol Christian College of Medicine
in Legaspi City, Philippines and completed his residency at the University of Oklahoma School of Medicine in Tulsa, OK.

In 1997, Rick was recruited by Southwest Medical Center in Liberal, KS. After two years, he opened his private practice as an Internal Medicine Physician.

Rick’s hobbies included restoring and collecting antique cars, vintage guitars, vintage amplifiers, and old radios. Rick was a founding member of the RBC Band where he sang and played guitar.

He was a former Chief of the Medical Staff at Southwest Medical Center. He was also a member of the Kansas Medial Society and past president of Cimarron Medical Society. He was also a member of the Masons.

Rick is survived by his wife Tess of the home, a sister, Sheila Fitzgerald Ricke and husband Ron of Sharon, KS. Two nieces, Samantha Ricke Ney and husband Gabe of Manhattan, KS. Amanda Ricke McCall and husband Brad of Boulder, CO. Two great nephews, Joe and Wyatt Ney.

Rick was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.

While condolences are appreciated, per the wishes of Dr. Rick and his family, there will be no viewing and a private inurnment will be held at the Mount Olive Cemetery near Nardin, OK at a later date.

In lieu of flowers and cards, please make a charitable donation to Southwest Medical Center or the Liberal Animal Shelter in Dr. Rick Fitzgerald’s honor in care of Miller Mortuary, PO Box 826 Liberal, KS 67905-0826

Friends are also encouraged to send condolences to Dr. Rick’s family through his tribute web page at www.millermortuary.net.