Resident of San Jose Jim Fitzgerald was born in San Francisco to Jack and Helen Fitzgerald and was the oldest of 3 boys. He attended St. Joseph’s and St. Patrick’s seminaries. Jim joined the Army and served for 6 years. After earning a teaching certificate from Cal State-LA, he taught for 3 years in Los Angeles before moving to Santa Clara Unified where Jim had a long career in education as a teacher, coach, counselor, and administrator. Jim defined the meaning of friendship and remained connected to former students, athletes and friends for decades.

In 1967, Jim married Pam McCloskey. They remained in Santa Clara Valley where they raised two sons and spent 57 years together. Following retirement, Jim joined San Jose Country Club, volunteered through the Ascent Employment Program at Queen of Apostles helping inmates with employment opportunities and lectured at his parish. In the last 7 months, Jim battled brain cancer and finally passed peacefully in his sleep on January 18.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Pam; sons, Jim (Wendy) and Ryan; and grandchildren, Casey, Darby, Aiden, Jamie and Katherine. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Dan and John.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, January 25th at 12:30pm at Queen of Apostles, 4911 Moorpark Ave, San Jose. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Second Harvest of Silicon Valley.