J.W. (Bill) Fitzgerald, 87, died Dec. 26th, 2012 on the family farm where he was born on May 23, 1925. He was the son of Ed and Frances Fitzgerald. Bill married JoAnne Boles in 1946. He was a well-known and respected farmer/stockman in the area. He was a pioneer member of the Liberty School Community. As boys, he and brother, Joe delivered water to Liberty School on the home section. Most of his children also attended Liberty School . The home place was recognized as a Century Farm of Kansas in 2008. Bill was a member of the Liberal High School class of 1944. He was a World War II veteran, European Theater, Purple Heart recipient, an American Legion member, a lifetime member of the Saint Anthony Parish (instrumental in helping build two churches), and a member of the Knights of Columbus. Over the years, he served on various boards including the Liberty School board, Seward County Fair Board and was a 4-H leader.
He is survived by his wife JoAnne, children, Mike (Annette) Fitzgerald, Tom (Kathy) Fitzgerald, Mark (Elaine) Fitzgerald, all of Liberal, John Fitzgerald, Rolla, Elizabeth Harris (Mike Vincent), Hays, Martha Fitzgerald (Wayne Pritchard), Marie (Tom) Sciacca, and Alice Fitzgerald, all of Trinidad, CO, 13 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren and one brother, Dr. E.J. (Mary) Fitzgerald, Wichita, brother-in-law, E. Paul Boles (Patsy), Liberal.
He was a good husband, father, friend and neighbor.
Private services were held Dec. 29th 2012 at Saint Anthony’s Catholic Church.
Memorials: American Legion, Post # 80, and Wounded Warrior Foundation in care of Brenneman Funeral Home 1212 W. 2nd Liberal, KS 67901. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.brennemanfuneralhome.com
