Michael Patrick Fitzgerald

Michael Patrick Fitzgerald passed away on September 30, 2022, at age 62 in Port Orchard, Washington. His loving spirit and zest for life live on in those who were fortunate to know him.

Mike was born in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, just one of many spots in the United States (and for several years, Italy), where he lived while growing up in an Army family with his dad John, mom Pat, and four brothers. When it came time for college, Mike headed off to the Florida Institute of Technology to study Ocean Engineering. Post-graduation, he pursued a career as a Naval Architect, where he worked for the Department of Defense/Navy until his retirement in 2017.

While at college, Mike was a mainstay on the varsity soccer team. His love for the game continued throughout his life, as he became a fervent supporter and long-time season ticket holder of the Seattle Sounders FC. No fair weather fan was Mike; he also cheered on the Seahawks and Mariners through thick and thin.

A man of many interests, Mike’s passions extended well beyond the world of sports. A wine enthusiast, he volunteered at Bainbridge Island Vineyards and at Perennial Vintners. Following years of learning the ins and outs of pruning, harvesting, wine production, and tasting room work, Mike started a vineyard of his own with his friend Larry Beal.

Mike was an accomplished musician, mastering both the guitar and the piano. He also enjoyed attending concerts; favorite bands were Steely Dan and the Doobie Brothers. Travel and the outdoors also played a large part in Mike’s life. In particular he enjoyed visiting Seaside, Oregon, and was a lighthouse enthusiast, visiting approximately 25 structures around the country. Perhaps the spot that held the most special place in Mike’s soul was Mt. Rainier, his “happy place” where he would often go on solo hikes or enjoy day trips with his wife Jan.

Marriage to Jan, the love of his life, in 2004 brought into Mike’s life the love and companionship that made pursuing all of his interests that much better. It also made him a stepdad to Tyler, father-in-law to Michelle, and in 2011 he became Grandpa Mike to his beloved Cece. Nothing brought more joy to Mike than teaching Cece to play chess, kick around a soccer ball, or just spend time hanging out together.

Mike was an active member of the parish at St. Gabriel Catholic Church of Port Orchard for many decades. Over the years he volunteered in the baptism ministry as well as providing support to Jan in her many roles within the church community.

Mike was preceded in death by his father John. Family members who will carry forward their loving memories of Mike are his wife Jan; stepson Tyler (Michelle); granddaughter Cece; mother Pat; brothers Danny (Dawn), Brian, Johnny, and Tim; nieces Amber (Garrett), Leah (Matt), Kayla, and Elise; great-nieces Tatum and Nayvie, and great-nephew Kayden.

A funeral Mass will take place at St. Gabriel Catholic Church of Port Orchard, Washington on Friday, October 7, at 11:00am.

Interment will take place at Sunset Lane Cemetery, Port Orchard, Washington.

Memorial contributions can be made to The Rave Foundation (the official charitable arm of the Seattle Sounders) or St. Gabriel Catholic Church of Port Orchard, WA.