Michael J. Fitzgerald

Age 78, of St Paul - Como Park.  

Mike was a proud lifetime resident of Como Park, attending St. Andrew’s grade school and St. Agnes High School. He married the love of his life Yvonne at St. Andrew’s Church on June 18, 1971.

“Mr. Fitz” was an English teacher and coach at St. Agnes and St. Bernard's High Schools in St. Paul for over four decades. During his time as a teacher and coach he positively influenced countless young people, mentoring them both in the classroom and on the athletic fields. From grammar to grounders, from free verse to free throws, Mike found a way to make every student and player feel like they belonged in his English classes and on his teams. He took great pride in helping young people succeed, and they remembered their experiences with him. Throughout his life in St. Paul it was impossible to go anywhere without someone coming up to him to talk about teams, games, and classes of the past. It was also a common occurrence for students, both past and present, to stop by his house just to say hello. He always appreciated these conversations and took great pride in remembering scores and specific plays from games played many years ago.​

Mike was extremely proud of his family and friends. He loved playing sports in the backyard with his kids and grandkids. He also loved coaching and attending their games and events throughout the years. He enjoyed playing softball with his team “The Red Raiders” in the Roseville league every summer. He looked forward to his weekly walks and going out to eat with friends. He was a teacher, teammate, friend, coach, and also a father, grandpa, and husband who is greatly missed. He will be remembered for his quick smile, willingness to help, his kind and loving demeanor, and his love of all things family, friends, high school athletics, and Big Ten football.​

Mike passed away peacefully on August 16 with his family by his side. He was preceded in death by his father Thomas and his mother Anna; his sister Kathleen Thelen; and his lifelong friend and brother-in-law Joe Morin. 

He is survived by Yvonne, his loving wife of 50 years; his children, Brian (Jennessa) Fitzgerald, Karen (Joe) Nusbaum, Andy (Alyssa) Fitzgerald, and Becky (Josh) Moore; ten grandchildren, Natalie, Jenna, Brianna, Abby, Billy, Hattie, Rosie, Finn, Declan, and Ronan; his brother Father Tom Fitzgerald; brother-in-law, Dick Thelen; sister-in-law Gayle Morin; and many other family and friends.​

Visitation at MUELLER-BIES FUNERAL HOME-ROSEVILLE, 2130 N. Dale St. at County Road B, from 4-8 PM Monday. (PLEASE NOTE: Due to road construction, the intersection of Dale & County Road B is closed. The funeral home can only be accessed via Dale St. northbound from Larpenteur Ave.) Mass of Christian Burial 10:30 AM Tuesday, August 24 at MATERNITY OF MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH, 1414 N. Dale St., St. Paul, with visitation one hour prior.  Interment at Roselawn Cemetery.