A Celebration of the Life of Joseph Wayne Fitzgerald (May 21st, 1948-May 4th, 2020)

Joseph Wayne Fitzgerald was born on May 21st, 1948 in Niles, Michigan to John and Mildred Fitzgerald. Joe completed the family, joining sisters Betty, Vivian, Marilyn, Jeanette, Pat, Judy (Richard), and Bonnie (Bill) and brother Bill (Gail). Joe was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Betty and Marilyn, and children Bobbie and Wayne as well as his close friend, Jon Lewis. He resided in Luther, Michigan with his wife, Barbara.

Joe spent his childhood making memories with his siblings, cousins and friends roaming the woods, lakes and town of Cassopolis, Michigan. He was married to Ann (Ordway) in 1966, having three children- Bobbie, Wayne, and Shawn. After separating from Ann, he married his true heart, Barbara (Koenigshof) in 1975. Shawn (Tracy) was joined by sisters Shea (Tim) Umbreit, Jennifer Rodabaugh, Bobbi Jo (Matt) Holmes, and Tricia Morris.

Joe is celebrated by Barbara and his children as well as grandchildren: Katlyn (Doug) Nichols, Karissa (Zach) Nicklas, Brianna (Tyler) Salisbury, Tanner Fitzgerald, MaKenzie Fitzgerald, Leelen Fitzgerald, Allison Umbreit, Clara Umbreit, Benjamin Umbreit, Emily Umbriet, Jesse Umbreit, Brandon Rodabaugh, Kinson Rodabaugh, Rowden Holmes, Gavick Holmes, Monroe Holmes, and Rem Morris. Joe also had seven great grandchildren: Stella, Sawyer, and Lillian Nichols; Aspen, Braxtin, and Kooper Nicklas; and Jennessee Salisbury.

Anyone that knew Joe, knew he was a man of Faith. He actively participated in his church, Edgette's Wesleyan, as well as the Emmaus Community and Christian Motorcycle Association. Joe volunteered for the fire department in Cassopolis, Michigan as well as Luther, Michigan. He was the fire chief for several years in Luther. He remained an active board member for the Luther Fire Department for many years.

Joe worked in tool and die and finished his career as an employee for Osceola county maintenance. He retired in November of 2013. Joe loved outdoor adventures including fishing, hunting and finding mushrooms. A favorite place was Beaver Island however the best mushroom hunting spot will remain a secret. He loved being with his family and friends and could make a stranger into a friend within five minutes. There are too many tales to tell regarding this "Big Fish" but they all end with smile.

Joe and Barb spent his retirement years travelling cross country to visit their siblings, children and grandchildren. They shared many special adventures of their own, finding happiness dancing through the rain and sunshine they were blessed with.

Rest in Peace Joe. You will be missed.