Donald Fitzgerald, of Pepperell

Pepperell-Donald F. Fitzgerald, Jr, 53, of Pepperell, a man of boundless energy and indomitable spirit passed away peacefully, on Monday morning, November 25, 2024 in his home surrounded by loved ones after a valiant decade-long battle with lung cancer. Don was born in Fitchburg on June 11, 1971, a son of the late Donald F. Fitzgerald, Sr. He was a graduate of North Middlesex Regional High School in Townsend and earned his bachelor degree from Bridgewater State University. Born to build and create, Donald designed and constructed not just buildings but entire worlds for his family and friends. From the ground up, he built homes that were more than structures; they were sanctuaries. Donald’s zest for life was evident in everything he did. He supported Jacob and Alyssa in their journey to black belts in karate and spent countless hours cheering from the sidelines of soccer fields. He constructed an ice rink in his yard, ensuring Landon and Brody had the best home advantage any hockey player could ask for. His adventures were legendary, spanning Spartan races to skydiving, and an epic road trip from Massachusetts to Alaska to relocate his daughter, all while undergoing rigorous cancer treatment. Donald never saw a limit he didn’t want to test or a boundary he couldn’t push. His father was a constant companion in both building projects and health battles, providing unwavering support. His mother's enduring love and encouragement shone brightly, especially in his final days, sitting by his side with a tender presence that comforted him until the end. Donald's life was one of action and impact, filled with tangible proofs of his love and labor. From the homes he renovated to the lives he touched; he left an indelible mark on the world. His legacy is a testament to the power of determination, love, and sheer willpower. He leaves behind a community richer for his presence and a family fortified by his strength and love. As we say goodbye, we also say thank you—to a man who was truly a real-life superhero. He leaves his wife, Lauren P. (Zmetra) Fitzgerald of Pepperell; his mother Elaine (Mailhot) Fitzgerald of Townsend; his four children, Alyssa M. Andrews and her husband, Luke of Nashua, Jacob T. Fitzgerald of Tewksbury, Landon J. Fitzgerald and Brody E. Fitzgerald Both of Pepperell; three sisters, Sharon L. Gravell and her husband, Mitch of Townsend, Cindy A. Brown and her husband Tom of Kittery Point, ME, Lisa A. DeSisto and her husband Tom of Groton; two grandchildren, Ellie and Rory; his former wife, Colleen Cote of Tewksbury and several nephews and nieces. His funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, December 2 at 10:30 AM in St. John the Evangelist Church, 1 School St., Townsend followed by a burial in the Hillside Cemetery in Townsend. Calling hours will be held on Sunday, December 1, from 2 to 5 PM in the T.J. Anderson & Son Funeral Home, 250 Main St., Townsend. www.andersonfuneral.com. In lieu of flowers, please consider supporting lung cancer research. Checks may be made out to Mass General Cancer Center (noting "in memory of Don Fitzgerald" in the memo line or in an accompanying note) and mailed to the Mass General Development Office Attn: Keith Erikson, 125 Nashua Street, Suite 540, Boston, MA 02114. Gifts may also be made online at www.giving.massgeneral.org . Click on "Give Now." In the area to indicate if your gift should be designated to a program or area, please indicate "Thoracic cancers medical oncology research in memory of Don Fitzgerald."

Tributes

Donald Fitzgerald, of Pepperell

June 11, 1971 - November 25, 2024