Fr. Thomas P. Fitzgerald

Fr. Tom Fitzgerald, age 84, passed away December 29, 2024.

Preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Anna; sister, Kathleen Thelen; and brother, Michael Fitzgerald. 

Survived by brother-in-law, Richard Thelen; sister-in-law, Yvonne Fitzgerald; many nieces, nephews, cousins, fellow priests and other religious; and friends. 

Following his ordination in 1966, Fr. Tom served the following parishes; St. Paul Cathedral, St. Michael in Stillwater, St. Rita in Cottage Grove, St. Genevieve in Centerville, St. John the Baptist in Hugo, and many others after retirement from full time ministry.

Fr. Tom was well known for his friendly and welcoming manner with all he encountered. He was a beloved pastor in the parishes he served. He faithfully served the Good Lord and his church for over 57 years. He was kind and empathetic.

Fr. Tom was known for his Irish sense of humor. He was presiding at a family wedding and as the couple came up to recite their vows, Tom asked them a question. He asked if they knew about the wedding feast at Cana. They said yes, and he then asked them why Jesus was at the wedding. They were caught off guard and could not come up with an answer. He smiled and said "Because he was invited" which prompted a positive response from all the guests.

He enjoyed many activities including golf, bowling, hunting, fishing, and softball. Each summer for many years, Tom would organize a Bocce Ball tournament and invite numerous friends, relatives and parishioners to compete for fame, glory and cash.

A Special Thank You to Our Lady of Peace Hospice for the excellent care they provided Tom at home and in their residence during his final weeks, and also to all of his fellow priests and religious, his family, friends, parishioners, and all who brought meals, visited, called, or sent cards during his final months.

Mass of Christian Burial 10:00 AM Monday, January 13 at The Church of St. Genevieve-Parish Community Center, 6995 Centerville Rd., Centerville, MN.

The Mass will be livestreamed at the following link: https://www.facebook.com/StGenevieveParishCentervilleMN/live

Visitation 2-6 PM Sunday, January 12, (with a prayer service at 5 PM) at Mueller-Bies Funeral Home - Lino Lakes, 7050 Lake Drive (Co Hwy 23) and at the church from 9-10 AM Monday. Interment Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to The Church of St. Genevieve, Our Lady of Peace Hospice, or donor's choice.