Ralph Michael Fitzgerald

Ralph “Fitz” Michael Fitzgerald, 68, of Pensacola, Florida, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2026. He was born on November 23, 1957, in Shelton, Connecticut, to the late Ralph V. and Camille E. (Salerno) Fitzgerald.

Fitz is survived by his beloved wife, Kerry Fitzgerald of Pensacola, Florida; his daughters, Kyleen (Ricky) Martin of Peoria Heights, Illinois, and Katie (Ryan) Whalen of Morton, Illinois; his grandchildren, Kayla (Austin) Wiegand of Collinsville, Illinois, and their son, Kaleb; Kennedy (Josh) Eaton of Morton, Illinois; Keely (Damian) Becerra of Peoria Heights, Illinois, and their daughter, Kaleia; and Remy Martin and Ricky Martin of Peoria Heights, Illinois; his stepchildren, Cody (Shyanne) Desanto of Caneyville, Kentucky, and their daughter, Rhaenyra, Dylan Desanto of Dallas, Texas, Nick Desanto of Scottsdale, Arizona, and Emily Desanto of Oxford, Mississippi; his brother, Paul (Allegra) Fitzgerald of Shelton, Connecticut, and their children, Michael, Bryan, and Maggie; his sister, Karen Mudd of Auburn, California, and her children, Kyle and Travis; his aunt, Anna Salerno Schoff (Hal Melfi) of Phoenix, Arizona; and many great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family members, lifelong friends, and fellow Soldiers who will cherish his memory.

Fitz proudly served in the United States Army for more than 20 years, retiring as a First Sergeant. He was especially proud of his time with the 82nd Airborne Division, where he served as an Airborne Ranger, Master Parachutist, and Jumpmaster. Throughout his distinguished military career, including service during Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm, he earned the Bronze Star Medal and numerous other military decorations in recognition of his leadership, courage, and dedication. As a First Sergeant, Fitz took great pride in mentoring young Soldiers, leading by example, and earning the respect of those who served beside him. His military service was more than a profession; it was his passion, and he carried the values of duty, honor, and service with him throughout every chapter of his life.

Following his Army retirement, Fitz began a second career in education at Linn State Technical College, where he taught Heavy Equipment Operations. He continued his career at Delta Technical College, where his natural leadership, strong work ethic, and ability to mentor others eventually led him to serve as Campus President. Much like his years in the Army, Fitz found purpose in leading others, passing along what he had learned, and helping students develop the skills and confidence needed to build successful careers.

Outside of work, Fitz embraced life with enthusiasm and was always ready for his next adventure. He had a lifelong love of hockey and enjoyed both playing and coaching throughout the years. He loved spending time on his boat and at the beach, where he found peace and happiness near the water. In retirement, he discovered a new passion for pickleball and became a Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) referee, traveling to tournaments and staying actively involved in the sport. Whether on the ice, at the beach, or on the pickleball court, Fitz’s energy, competitive spirit, and love of life were unmistakable.

Anyone who knew Fitz will remember his unmistakable booming voice and commanding presence. His legacy of service, leadership, patriotism, and love for the United States Army will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

ALL THE WAY!