James “Mike” Fitzgerald passed away at his home on Wednesday, September 2, 2020, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Springfield to the late John R. Sr. and Mary (Guyer) Fitzgerald. Mike is survived by his wife of 45 years, Andrée (Bordua) Fitzgerald, and two loving daughters, Moira Fitzgerald of New Haven, CT and Erin (Eric) Casper of Smithfield, VA. He also leaves three cherished grandchildren: Ethan, Liam, and Bridget. He leaves a caring sister and brother, Beth Lofquist and Thomas Fitzgerald, sisters-in-law Alice Fitzgerald and Gail Bordua, brother-in-law Michael Bordua, as well as many cousins, nieces, and nephews.  In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brothers Bernie and Jack Fitzgerald. Mike was well-liked everywhere he went and leaves many good friends, especially John McCullough. 

Following his graduation from Cathedral High School in 1964 he joined his father as an installation/repair man at the former New England Telephone Company.   He enjoyed his time in the Marine Corps, where he served six months’ active duty in 1966 followed by six years in the reserves. In 1971 he became a Massachusetts state trooper.  He spent many happy years working in the District Attorney’s office in the Springfield Courthouse. He received an associate’s degree in law enforcement from Springfield Technical Community College in 1978.  During his 29-year career he worked hard and earned promotions to corporal, sergeant, staff sergeant, lieutenant, and detective lieutenant, receiving several commendations along the way.  He retired at the rank of Detective Lieutenant in 2000, at which time he said he would miss working with his fellow officers the most.

He was an avid sports fan, particularly of the Brooklyn Dodgers (his childhood heroes), the Detroit Lions, and the Montreal Canadiens. He loved the beaches at Cape Cod and took his family there every year, where they made many cherished memories.  He worked hard to provide for his family and cared deeply for them.   He was a supportive and loving father.

One of Mike’s many talents was his ability to make others laugh, even during difficult times. He was humble, kind, generous, and warm. He helped others whenever he could. He was also tough and strong throughout his life and fought a heartbreaking illness with courage and grace. He will be deeply missed by his family and so many more. 

Honoring Mike’s wishes to keep things simple, there will be no calling hours. Family and friends are invited to a Liturgy of Christian Burial at St. Cecilia’s Church, 42 Main Street., Wilbraham, MA on Thursday, September 10, at 10 a.m. Burial will be at the convenience of the family. Wilbraham Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sisters of St. Joseph, 577 Carew St., Springfield, MA 01104.