Michael "Fitzy" Fitzgerald

Michael Edward Fitzgerald, known to almost everyone as “Fitzy,” passed away at home on November 20, 2025—one week after his 74th birthday—surrounded by family, following a two-year battle with lung cancer. During his illness, Fitzy continued to live life to the fullest. He traveled to Ireland during treatment to see his favorite musician, Bruce Springsteen, not once or twice, but three times, and even managed a golf trip to Florida. He never lost his spirit or quick wit and kept his friends and family laughing well into his final days. Mike was born in Pittsfield on November 13, 1951, to Joseph and Rose Fitzgerald. He was predeceased by his parents; his brothers Patrick and Joe (“Jose”); and his beloved wife, Teresa, in 2021. He leaves behind his children Jason, Erin, and Luke; his siblings John and Maureen; and many nieces and nephews on his wife's side of the family, where he was often affectionately known as “Uncle Mike the Cop.” Fitzy lost many friends along the way but leaves behind some of his closest lifelong friends: Eugene Auge (Karen) of Pittsfield; Bill Murphy (Lisa) of Rhode Island; Bob “Smitty” Smith (Diane) of Florida; and Steve (Diane) Magaral of Worthington. In his early years, Mike attended Pittsfield schools and graduated from Pittsfield High School in 1969. He went on to attend BCC, American International College, and Southern Vermont College, ultimately earning a master’s degree in Criminal Justice. As a young man he was proud to be part of the local gym team and even performed at the World’s Fair in New York City. Mike once aspired to pursue a writing career in California but eventually returned to Pittsfield, where he joined the Pittsfield Police Department. He served for 30 years, retiring at the rank of sergeant, and also served for many years as president of the police union. He was known for his compassionate approach to policing, often saying that when someone encounters the police, it is likely the worst day of their life—and they should be treated with understanding and empathy. Mike enjoyed a long retirement of over 18 years and often said he recommended it. He was a staple in the Bag O’ Beer golf league for many years and spent countless hours at the GEAA, Skyline, Berkshire Hills, and Pontoosuc. He made friends everywhere he went, always enjoying good company. A staunch opponent of “fun-sucking,” he loved to laugh, joke, and make the most of life. Fitzy made it a priority to instill in his children the importance of life experiences: time with friends and family, sporting events, live music, travel, making memories with loved ones, hard work, and compassion. Funeral Notice: Calling hours for Fitzy will be Friday, December 5, 2025, from 4pm to 7pm at the Dwyer-Wellington Funeral Home in Pittsfield, 220 East St, Pittsfield MA 01201. Burial will take place on Saturday, December 6, 2025 at 11am at St. Mary’s Cemetery on Route 203 in Nassau, NY. A celebration of his life at Zucchini’s Restaurant in Pittsfield will directly follow at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, all donations in Fitzy’s memory can be made to The Love of T, and will specifically be used to help fund a suicide prevention film on his late wife, Teresa.

Michael "Fitzy" Fitzgerald

November 13, 1951 - November 20, 2025