Patrick "Pat" Fitzgerald, 88, of Grand Island, went to his heavenly home on July 15, 2026, with loving family by his side at Grand Island Regional Medical Center.

Pat requested cremation which was provided by Livingston-Sondermann Funeral Home. A memorial service is being planned for a later date.

Pat was born on March 22, 1938 in Bridgewater, SD to Lloyd F. Fitzgerald and Gladys I (Lawver) Fitzgerald. He graduated from Boys Town Omaha in 1956, where he excelled in academics and athletics. He earned a scholarship to UNL where he played football and wrestled for the Cornhuskers. In 2016, he was inducted into the Boys Town Alumni Sports Hall of Fame.

Pat worked for the Carnation Company for 31 years, where he was a Senior Territory Manager and District Trainer in the Grocery Products Division. He then continued working in sales for Enesco. After retiring, he chose to work security for Securitas for 15 years.

Pat was married to Rita Fitzgerald for 42 years. From that marriage are sons Sean Fitzgerald, Shane Fitzgerald and Justin Fitzgerald, and grandsons Kieron and Ian. Pat was also blessed with daughter Jodi, and sons Patrick and Brian from a previous marriage.

Pat's greatest love was his family. He was selflessly devoted to providing for them.

Those left to cherish his memory are sons Sean, Shane and Justin; grandsons Kieron and Ian; daughter Jodi; son Brian; and many nieces and nephews.

Pat was preceded in death by his wife, Rita; son Patrick; sisters Beverly, Barbara, Burdeen and twin sister, Patricia; brother Steve; and his parents, Lloyd and Gladys.

His presence is already greatly missed.