Unfortunately, we will not be able to attend Bill’s visitation or funeral. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. What a truly wonderful and generous person Bill was to the Rochester community and Lourdes.

I met Bill when he was a customer of Ziegler and we became friends over the game of golf. He hosted many times at Rochester CC and we met in Decorah a number of times also. Bill was a gentleman who enjoyed life and golf. I cherish the time that we spent together on the courses. He recorded a hole in one at Rochester which I was there to observe. He was one of life’s good guys. Condolences to his family and may God rest his soul. 

We are thankful to Bill for his years of service and support to the Lourdes Foundation and Rochester Catholic Schools. He leaves a legacy of love and we are indebted for all that he has done for schools. Prayers extended to Pat and his family  - Rochester Catholic Schools & Lourdes Foundation

His son, Mike is one of my best friends and I have so many great memories of “Mr. Fitzgerald”.  He was a man of few words but incredible wit and the lasting impression he left upon me is he was a wise and sharp man that didn’t mess around.  I am sad to hear of his passing but what a great, long life he lived.  My heart goes out with great love to his family and wife and especially my friend, Mike and his Melissa, their girls and to the great Fitzgerald legacy Bill has left in his wake.  

All my love,

Drew McDonald

Patty, Tom and Mike

Our families have been “family”  since I was born and Bill was a loved and respected father figure to me. I lam blessed to be one of his girls and will use that as strength to get through this loss. I like to picture Bill, Dad and Mike having a party up above!

Love you all and all the family,

Tricia

Bill was a shrewd, savvy, and successful businessman; all the while being a bettter person to everyone in his path.  Godspeed Bill, on your Highway to Heaven.

Pat, I saw the notice of Bill's death in today's Minneapolis paper and wanted you to know my thoughts are with you.  Have many happy memories of time spent together all those years ago in Rochester.

Nedra

Patricia & Family: i write with sadness upon seeing the news of Bill’s death. I hold fond memories of getting to know Bill through organization of gatherings in both Naples and Rochester in support of DeLaSalle High School and its students. Bill’s leadership was significant not only with the Class of ‘53, yet further by his efforts to grow our Florida event to record levels. His impact on generations of Islander students grew exponentially over the years, and will live on forever. For that and his friendship, I am so grateful. Draw strength in your faith, family, and friends. 

Dave Thorson, former VP of DeLaSalle HS 

Sending our love and condolences to all of you. May the lord give you strength and comfort through this difficult time. Sending Love and hugs to all the Fitzgerald Family. Bill always meant so much to our family, he will be greatly missed

To the Fitzgerald family,

So very sorry to hear of the passing of long time friend, customer and neighbor Bill.  So many memories that started with selling Rochester Sand & Gravel used Mack Trucks back in 1974.  I will never forget Bill walking thru a group of 20 or 30 identical fleet trucks in St. Paul.  Bill looked like an expert and quickly picked out five trucks, as if he had a keen appraisal and knew used trucks and their residual values.  He was so serious about which trucks he wanted and I asked him how he picked these five so quickly.  His response from an expert that Bill was, “these five have the nicest bumpers!”  We both busted out laughing as he made his comment.  The used Mack Trucks did a great job, after the got a “DuPont overhaul” (new yellow paint).  We had many memories in business and a few on the golf course.  Rest in peace, Bill.  Your family has our deepest sympathies.