Robert D. "Uncle Bob" FitzGerald

GENEVA - In Loving Memory of Robert D. "Uncle Bob" FitzGerald, November 24, 1942 – July 1, 2025. Robert D. FitzGerald, lovingly known to many as "Uncle Bob," passed away peacefully surrounded by family on July 1, 2025, in his hometown of Geneva, New York, where he was born, lived, and made an unforgettable mark on countless lives.

Born to Robert J. and Marion (Eades) FitzGerald on November 24, 1942, Bob's life was one marked by service, craftsmanship, curiosity, and an unshakable moral compass. A graduate of DeSales Catholic High School in 1960 and Western Michigan University in 1965. Bob served proudly as a Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force, specializing in search and rescue missions. Following his military service, he applied his schooling to a role as an applications engineer at Goulds Pumps. For the remainder of his career, Bob took to the skies once again, as a commercial pilot for United Airlines, spanning 20 plus years.

Bob had the hands of a craftsman and the mind of a teacher. He found great joy in woodworking, restoring sailboats, cars, RVs, and especially in reviving the past-most notably when he saved the historic Lehigh Valley Railroad Station from demolition just ten days before its scheduled teardown. A gifted fixer of things and hearts alike, he was known for his brilliant mind, generous spirit, and willingness to help others.

Bob was a passionate educator in his own right-whether he was explaining how an engine worked to a curious child, teaching his grandchildren how to build wooden trains and birdhouses, or guiding them through the wonders of flight and steam power. He loved flying, particularly in his beloved open cockpit Starduster biplane. As a long time member of the Penn Yan Flying club, where he started his son Rob on his journey to becoming a Certified Flight Instructor, Bob donated many hours to the successful operations of the Club, and could be found at the annual 4th of July Fly-In Breakfast held annually at the flying club.

Bob enjoyed reading, sailing with family, fixing up anything with moving parts, and above all, connecting with people from all walks of life. His advice was always ready-sometimes unsolicited, always well-intended-and his values never wavered.

Bob is survived by his devoted wife, Rebecca Clark; and his beloved children: Robert M. FitzGerald, Amy Beth FitzGerald, and Michael (Lisa) FitzGerald. His legacy lives on in his cherished grandchildren: Giulia, Leonardo, Ava, David, Isabella, Anna, Mary, and Madelyn.

His beloved siblings include: Richard (Cynthia) FitzGerald, Tom (Shirley) FitzGerald, Karen (Paul) Wetzel, William FitzGerald, Dan (Patti) FitzGerald, and David (Mary) FitzGerald; as well as his brother-in-law Richard Clark, and countless nieces, nephews, friends and "muppets" whose lives were made better by knowing him.

In every child he taught, every engine he rebuilt, every soul he uplifted, and every laugh he shared, Uncle Bob's spirit will live on. He was the kind of man who made everything better-things, places, and most of all, people.

A memorial service and celebration of Bob's remarkable life will be held in Geneva. A Funeral Mass will take place at 10:00 a.m., Saturday July 5, at St. Stephen's Church, 48 Pulteney Street, followed by a Celebration of Life at 12:00 p.m. at the Geneva Country Club, 4147 West Lake Road.

In honor of his memory, the family asks that you spend a day fixing something, teaching someone, or simply helping a neighbor-just as he would have done.

For tributes and condolences, please visit www.mcguiganberofuneralhome.com