Thomas Fitzgerald
November 22, 1950 - July 23, 2023
Visitation: No Visitation
Service: 11AM on Saturday, August 5, 2023, Hiland Presbyterian Church, 845 Perry Hwy., Pgh, PA 15229
Thomas Paul Fitzgerald, 72, passed away peacefully surrounded by his wife, daughters and sons-in-law on July 23, 2023, in Pittsburgh, PA.
“Fitz” was born on November 22, 1950 in Pittsburgh to Wilbur T. Fitzgerald and Gertrude (Fahrney) Fitzgerald.
A 1969 graduate of Avonworth High School, Tom went on to earn an Associate Degree in Drafting & Design Technology at Gateway Technical Institute in 1971. He enlisted in the United States Army later that same year and proudly served as a Staff Sergeant in the Pennsylvania United States National Guard during the Vietnam War, until 1977.
During his time as an Army Reservist, he both supported and led the purchasing departments at companies like Bloom Engineering Co., Thomas Machine Inc., and Miller Printing. He was the Purchasing Manager at Grant Industrial Controls until his retirement in 2019.
Tom is survived by his “main squeeze” and beloved wife of 36 years, Roslynn Marie (Ceol) Fitzgerald; the joys of his life, daughters Laura Marie Mangus (Matthew) and Kathryn Marie Dockery (Sean); step-granddaughters, Madison Grace Mangus and Megan Elizabeth Mangus, brother-in-law, Edwin Weixel, and brother of the heart, David Stroyne. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and family members. Tom was a proud dog-dad to Brodie.
Tom was preceded in death by his loving parents and big sister, Patricia (Fitzgerald) Weixel, (Edwin).
A highly skilled drummer since the age of nine, Fitz was a well-known percussionist in many Pittsburgh bands including the Wee Jams, In Transit, and, more recently, the Hiland Presbyterian Church Praise Band.
Tom will be remembered for his animated storytelling, his participation in – and respect for – the United States Armed Forces, his dedication to his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and his deep love for family and friends. He was a devoted trolley enthusiast and enjoyed Beto’s pizza, soul, funk and R&B music, cars (especially his new Mustang), and a very well-groomed lawn.
We know Fitz will be keeping the beat in heaven until we meet again.
The family would like to thank the staff and medical professionals at Allegheny Health Network for their compassionate care.
A Celebration of Life will be held for Tom at Hiland Presbyterian Church, 845 Perry Hwy, Pittsburgh, PA 15229, on Saturday, August 5, 2023 at 11am. A luncheon will be held immediately following the service in Fellowship Hall.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in Thomas Fitzgerald’s name to the following organizations:
Hiland Presbyterian Church, Memo: Music Ministry (checks can be mailed to the address above)
PA Trolley Museum: https://pa-trolley.org/support/ptm-donation-form/
North Hills Food Bank: northhillsfoodbank.org
I will miss seeing Tom outside his home when I take Josie for her morning/evening walks. I will think of him every time I walk by his home. Rest In Peace.
Dear Tom,
We were so blessed to have you in our family. We’ll truly miss you. Your beautiful daughters will remind us of you and will bring a certain amount of comfort while we wait for the day when we can finally join you in your heavenly home.
Love you,
Dave & Cindy DiEmidio
I will never forget Fitz. He was the guy that was always there to provide a positive outlook no matter had bad your day was going! He was the best and I am missing him.
Tom was a great member of the Avonworth Drum Line. Good guy who was always kind and fun to be around. Very talented musician.
Miss You Tom!
Thanks for being such a wonderful Brother-In-Law.
For Loving My Sister.
For Giving The World Two Beautiful, Intelligent, Talented Daughters.
May God’s Peace and Love Surround Your Family.
You’ve shed the cares and snares of this world and are starting a higher adventure.
May you Soar!
Love You Much.
Cheryl
Fitz was a great friend and co-worker. He told the best jokes and had a awesome sense of humor. Miss you my brotha.
A good friend and co-worker for over 40 years. The best story teller we have ever seen. A very dedicated co-worker, Purchasing Manager, systems expert and a true friend and joy to work with. Lots of laughs, beers and fun was had with Tom by his co-workers and friends. A dynamic drummer and lover of music. No matter how bad your day was going Tom could always put a smile on your face.
You will be missed my friend, Rest in Peace in the Loving Hands of God. Love Ya Brother