Jack T. Fitzgerald

Dr. Jack T. Fitzgerald, age 98, passed away peacefully on April 13, 2025, at Noel Manor in Verona, Wisconsin, where he spent his final years together with his beloved wife, Joann. They recently celebrated an extraordinary milestone—their 75th wedding anniversary.

Jack is survived by Joann and their three children, Gary (Terri) Fitzgerald of Amherst Junction, Wisconsin; Ann (John) Wharton of Melbourne, Australia; and Tom (Kari) Fitzgerald of Verona, Wisconsin. He was a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren and had 14 great-grandchildren. Jack is also survived by his sister-in-law, Patricia McGinnity.

Born on September 23, 1926, in Green Bay, Wisconsin to Leon and Edna Fitzgerald, Jack moved to Madison as a child, where he spent his early days living in the historic Lorraine Hotel, managed by his father. Jack answered the call to service during World War II, proudly serving in the U.S. Navy. Following the war, Jack pursued his education at the Illinois College of Optometry.

While practicing optometry in Edgerton, WI in 1950, he married Joann Krueger, celebrating their wedding reception in the very hotel where he had once lived. They then moved to Madison, where Jack joined a practice on the Capitol Square, and he remained there until his retirement in 1991. He was a leader in his profession, serving as President of the Wisconsin Optometric Association in 1973.

Throughout his life, Jack was a respected and beloved member of his community, known for his kindness, intellect, and strong sense of community spirit. He enjoyed lively bridge games, dancing, and especially his cherished wine hours with Joann. A lifelong Wisconsin Badgers fan, Jack did not miss a home football game for over fifty years. His family proudly held some of the longest-standing season tickets in program history.

In retirement, Jack continued to share his passions—history and sports—by volunteering as a tour guide at both the Wisconsin Veterans Museum and Camp Randall. He and Joann also enjoyed their many trips to visit their daughter and her family in Australia.

At Jack’s request, no formal service will be held. He will be cremated, and his remains will be reunited with Joann’s upon her passing, honoring their incredible bond that lasted a lifetime. Jack will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. The Fitzgerald Family would like to thank the Noel Manor staff and Agrace Hospice Care Team, who took such good care of Jack during his last few months.

Personal note

My brothers and I have been so blessed to have such a wonderful father and mentor. I’ve never met a more generous, loving man. As busy as you were, your family was your priority, and you were our biggest support in all of our activities.

You will forever be in my heart.

Your beloved daughter Ann

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3610 Speedway Road, Madison

(608) 238-3434