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Thomas E.K. Fitzgerald
Thomas E.K. Fitzgerald
Obituary
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Thomas Fitzgerald Obituary
March 6, 1956 ~ July 14, 2017
We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Tom Fitzgerald, affectionately known as Tommy, Major Tom or simply Fitz. Tom was a dedicated son, husband, father, brother and uncle. Tom believed strongly in family, public service and education. After articling at the Ministry of the Attorney General, Crown Law Criminal, he became an Assistant Crown Attorney in Durham Region in 1985 and in 1993 he was appointed as the Crown Attorney in North Bay and later the Director of Crown Operations in the North Region where he mentored junior lawyers and was a respected member of the legal community. He worked tirelessly to achieve justice, to help victims of crime and to teach his colleagues the same skills and knowledge that made him an excellent prosecutor. Tom was born into a military family. He joined the Canadian Forces himself at the tender age of 50 where he completed basic training as a member of the 2nd Battalion of the Irish Regiment alongside soldiers who were half his age. Tom was commissioned an officer and seconded to the Judge Advocate General's staff in Ottawa for several years. His legal experience made him an enormous asset in assisting with the prosecution of a widely-watched homicide case in Kandahar. Later, Tom deployed for nine months to the NATO Training Mission Afghanistan, Kabul Military Training Centre Advisory Group, Camp Alamo Afghanistan where he helped develop local legal structures and procedures. On returning to the Crown Attorney's office, Tom was appointed General Counsel for Central East and worked out of the Durham Region office where he renewed many personal and professional relationships. After a reluctant early retirement and despite his illness, Tom continued his teaching efforts by authoring the first book-length treatment of sentencing guidelines for offenders in the military justice system. Tom could not have been more proud of his children: Oliver (29) who was recently called to the Bar; Annie (26) who is a brilliant writer and entrepreneur; and Tamsin (24) whose passion and work for various good causes is boundless. Tom is survived by his children, his wife Joanne Ferguson Fitzgerald (nee Rogers), his mother Dorothy Fitzgerald, and his siblings Patricia, Colleen, David and Jennifer and all their children. The families of both Tom and Joanne offer their deepest gratitude to Drs. Teresa Petrella and Hany Soliman at the Odette Cancer Centre and Dr. Nicolas Phan at Sunnybrook. Lastly, words cannot express our thanks for the support and care received by the doctors, nurses and staff at the Supportive Care Unit (4F) at Lakeridge Health in Oshawa. Visitation will be held at OSHAWA FUNERAL HOME, 847 King Street West (905-721-1234) on Friday, July 21st from 4 – 8 p.m. Funeral Service will be held in the Chapel on Saturday, July 22nd at 11:00 a.m. Memorial donations may be made to the Odette Cancer Centre, Sunnybrook Medical Centre, 2075 Bayview Avenue, Toronto.
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41 Entries
Matthew Gagne
September 6, 2017
To Fitz's Family,
I was Fitz's course officer when he completed his basic military officer qualification in Gagetown in 2008. At the time, I only knew him by the name "Fitz". I recall how he was loved and respected by all his course mates. Even with medical restrictions that would normally have got anyone else kicked off course, he insisted on completing the course. His persistence was genuine and he gained the respect of all his combat arms peers and staff. I very much enjoyed his presence. Although he had so much more life experience and knowledge than I did (he was more than twice my age at the time), he always displayed such respect for military structure that it was humbling to be in his presence.
I recall one particular event when he was sent to the base hospital and returned with such limiting medical restrictions. There was no way he could stay on the course. This was a very typical occurrence and the procedure to have him removed from course was in full motion. However, he asked to have five minutes with the Infantry School Commandant to plead his case to stay on course. He was given the opportunity (very abnormal for a 2nd Lieutenant) and I was in the office with him at the time. I swear he did Jedi mind tricks on us. Everyone in that office left convinced that he must complete that course and the Infantry School needed to help him complete it. It was then that I realized how good he was at his trade. I really respected him so much. He talked about his own father during that time in the office and, as a veteran infantry officer myself, I was proud of him.
I found out about Fitz passing away because last week I was going through my books at home and found one that he had given to me as a gift at the end of the course (The Oxford Anthology of Shakespeare). He had written a very nice note in it for me (see picture). I cherished it then and even more so now. The point I really want to make to you now is that your father, husband, brother, and uncle left his mark and is in many more memories than you may ever know.
My most sincere sympathy and gratitude for having had the opportunity to know Fitz even for just a little while,
Ken Lindstein
July 23, 2017
I was fortunate to work with Tom in the Military Prosecutions office of JAG. He was incredibly hard working and competent. A real team player, his enthusiasm for the Canadian Armed Forces was remarkable. He mentored more junior officers on tough prosecutions and instilled in them a can-do attitude. My sincere condolences to his family on their loss.
June Mayhew
July 22, 2017
Laughter and passion. Family and friends. Tom will always have a special place in my family's heart.
Bruce King
July 21, 2017
Joanne and Family,
I was saddened to learn of Tom's passing. I am so sorry and I offer my prayers and condolences. Tom and I served together in the Office of the JAG. I have fond memories of talking with Tom and sharing a laugh. He had a warm heart and a friendly way that made him very likeable. I will miss him.
Captain (N) Bruce King
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Michael Malleson
July 21, 2017
I am so grateful to have had the honour and privilege of serving along side Tom, and benefiting from his vast knowledge and experience. I know Tom's work ethic and service, to both our community and country, will continue to be a shining example to me and the many others who Tom mentored.
July 21, 2017
I started in the Crowns' office 26 years ago when there were 12 of us at a Courthouse that no longer even exists. We were the Whitby office back then. Will never forget my first Jury trial with Tom. At the last minute he told me I was doing the opening and then ordered it so I would have the important momento. In later years he will be remembered for those Friday afternoon chocolates. LA Turner Assistant Crown Attorney Oshawa
Helen Brooks
July 21, 2017
Dear Joanne - I am so sorry to hear of Tom's passing. My prayers are with you as you go through the grief. May your tears of sorrow today turn to tears of joy tomorrow as you look back at the beautiful memories.
Christine Cain
July 21, 2017
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I worked with Tom at the Crown's Office in Durham from the beginning of my own career. He was always a warm, friendly person to me and all of the staff here. He was quick to share a laugh (or candy) at the end of a long week. I will miss him.
Roberto Corbella
July 21, 2017
Hello Joanne, Very sorry to hear the news. Please know my thoughts are with you. I didn't work with Tom very much but the stories I have heard makes it feel as if he was there the entire time.
Take care
Robert Corbella.
Mitchell Flagg
July 21, 2017
Dear Joanne and family,
I was so grateful and honoured to have been able to work with and learn from Tom in his latter years as a Crown in the Durham office. I am so sorry for your loss and I will miss him dearly. We all aspire to do this public work with the same professionalism, good humour, dignity and humility that Tom brought to it every day.
July 21, 2017
Heartfelt sympathy Joanne and family on the loss Tom. His passion for Justice was legendary and yet delivered at times with great humour.
Barbara Connor (former court employee)
Prem Rawal
July 20, 2017
Thank you, Tom, for your wisdom, guidance, friendship and your service to Canada. Your memory will live forever in the hearts of all those you touched.
Bonnie Kierstead
July 20, 2017
I had the honour of working with Tom in 1st Appearance Court at 150 Bond Street. I was soooo nervous as I knew he could be tough and stern.
We ended up being close and he even began to rely on my opinion when it was necessary, which in fact was rare with him as a Crown.
I miss him dearly.
May you rest in peace
July 20, 2017
I had the honour of working with Tom in 1st Appearance Court at 150 Bond Street. I was soooo nervous as I knew he could be tough and stern.
We ended up being close and he even began to rely on my opinion when it was necessary, which in fact was rare with him as a Crown.
I miss him dearly.
May you rest in peace
Karl Baron
July 19, 2017
Joanne and Family
So sorry to hear of Tom's passing. I have many fond memories of his days in Youth Court. We shared many laughs! He was always the consummate professional who understood the complexities of today's youth. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Angela Douma
July 19, 2017
I had the pleasure of working with Maj Tom during his time with JAG/DMP. He always demonstrated his passion for justice and love of the military. He was polite, caring, supportive, and full of knowledge, tips and tricks. He taught me many lessons that will last a life time - he was a truly wonderful man that left a permanent and positive mark on my life. My sincerest condolences on the loss of such an amazing person.
Leslie Pringle
July 19, 2017
I was so sorry to hear this news about Tom. He and I did our first year criminal moot together (opposite sides!). Our entire moot team loved that experience - three of the four of us went into criminal law. Tom carried that passion with him into his career and was well known in the criminal law field. He will be much missed. Don and I send our heartfelt condolences to his wife and children.
Leslie Pringle and Don Wright (Law '83)
Tony Tamburro
July 19, 2017
Tom will always be remembered as an outstanding prosecutor, a fine officer, a wonderful friend and mentor, and a true gentleman. He is missed.
Lieutenant-Colonel Tony Tamburro, Office of the Judge Advocate General
Greg and Goretti O'Driscoll
July 19, 2017
Joanne, Oliver, Annie and Tam,
We are so sad at Tom's passing. He was a good friend, a wonderful colleague, an officer and a gentleman. We shall miss his gentle smile and the twinkle in those Irish eyes. God bless you all and may the pain you feel now soon give way to all the wonderful memories you have of this larger than life man.
Opal Rosamond
July 18, 2017
Dear Joanne, I send my most heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Tom was such a wonderful man. It was a privilege to know him and to work with him.
May your many happy memories help sustain you during this very difficult time.
Joanne, you are loved very much and Tom is so proud of you.
RIP Tom.
Love Opal
Jenn Clarke
July 18, 2017
Tom, the quiet gentleman in the green cartigan who periodically entered the library in search of "my beautiful wife". He would stop to chat for a moment or two to tell me of his aspirations of becoming a published writer. Eventually he made this dream come true. Joanne and the entire family, my deepest condolscenes on your loss. As ever and always you remain in my heart. I am so very sorry at this difficult time.
Deborah Heidary
July 18, 2017
To Oliver, Annie, and Tam,
You are in my thoughts right now as I know you are feeling so much. Please know that you will always remember and have the moments you shared with your father. They will stay with you forever. Keep his memory alive. Stay together, and be there for each other. I wish I could hold each one of you as I did when you were babies. My love to you all.
Guy Killaby
July 18, 2017
Joanne and family, Tom was a friend from law school and a valued colleague at JAG. He was truly inspirational in his military service to Canada and his dedication to justice. And he was a great friend with a kind word when needed. I will miss him.
Capt Cynthia Gaudreault, LBA Member Benefits Coordinator
July 18, 2017
We are truly sorry to learn of Tom's passing. He was an exception legal officer and mentor. On behalf of his friends and former colleagues from the Office of the Judge Advocate General, please accept our sincerest condolences.
July 18, 2017
Tom was a classmate of mine in Queens' Law ' 83. He clearly went on to have a remarkable legal career and was a tribute to his profession and University. My deepest sympathy to all of his family for his passing at such a young age.
Deborah-Anne Hennessey ( St. Thomas, Ontario)
Robert Parsons
July 18, 2017
God's Speed Tom.
Your battle is over and you can rest now.
E Mac Donald
July 18, 2017
Thank you ! And your family for your many years of service . Keeping Canada safe was your life commitment A wonderful unselfish endever
Rest peacefully
Bill Johnson
July 18, 2017
Joanne
My deepest sympathy and condolences to you and the rest of Tom's family on Tom's passing. Though I am now retired I know I am also extending those sentiments on behalf of the Sault Ste. Marie Crown Attorney's office and the entire prosecution service of the north region. I hope that your wonderful memories of your life together will help you through this most difficult time. Tom had an indomitable character and spirit but always with a smile that all of us can take as a beacon on how to lead our lives. He was a leader among leaders. And he did make life interesting to be around him. We will all miss him.
Kim Vanderveer
July 18, 2017
Joanne, my deepest condolences to you, your children & extended family. I pray that God will give you strength, peace and comfort during this time of great sadness. Kim Vanderveer
July 18, 2017
Dear Fitzgerald Family--I met Tom when working with him on education for Crown training. He was the management representative and I was the association representative. Tom was deeply interested in the training prosecutors to high standards and with the help of others, he accomplished that goal. I will miss him and am saddened by his loss. My deepest condolences to your family.
Liesha Earle
Assistant Crown Attorney (former Vice President of Education for the Ontario Crown Attorney's Association)
Colonel Vihar Joshi
July 18, 2017
My deepest condolences to the Fitzgerald family. I really enjoyed working with Tom. He was a fine legal officer. I will always have fond memories of this truly kind man.
Doug Curliss
July 17, 2017
Joanne and family: My sincere condolences on the loss of Tom. He and I shared some military training experiences together. We were both of the similar tender years and shared the aches and pains the younger ones seemed to avoid. He had a passion for all things military and justice. He will be missed by many.
Phyllis Nadeau
July 17, 2017
I had the pleasure of working with Fitz during his time with JAG/DMP and thoroughly enjoyed chatting with him. He was a wealth of knowledge that he readily shared while also constantly looking to learn new things. I am so sorry to hear of his passing. He was an absolutely wonderful soul.
Leonard Kim
July 17, 2017
I will always be grateful for the opportunities that Tom gave me here in the North early in my legal career. He was so welcoming to me and my family and as our Director, continued to ensure that our experiences here as Crowns were both challenging and rewarding. Our deepest condolences to Tom's family. May the happy and fond memories of him bring you peace and comfort during this difficult time. We know that Tom is resting and in a much better place now. God bless,
Leonard & Yoo Young Kim, Sudbury, ON
Katherine Kavassalis
July 17, 2017
Dear Joanne
My heartfelt condolences for your loss. May your wonderful memories carry you through this most difficult time. Although I will be out of the country, please know that I will be thinking of you.
Kelli Salter
July 17, 2017
Joanne, my condolences to you during this difficult time.
Kelli S., DCAS Legal
Melissa Martin
July 17, 2017
My deepest condolences to Tom's family. Sending prayers at this difficult time.
Melissa Martin (Oshawa Courthouse)
July 17, 2017
Dear Joanne,
We are grieved to think of the pain you are experiencing and so sad that Tom has passed away. Our thoughts are with you and with all those who hold Tom dear.
Sincerely,
Janice & Harry LaForme
July 17, 2017
We are so sorry for your loss. I truly wish that Rob and I could be there on Friday and Saturday but we will be out of the province with the kids. May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief. We will be thinking of all of you.
Megan, Rob, Connor, Lauren and Emily
Carrie Schafranek
July 17, 2017
Dear Joanne and family. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you!
Pierre Plourde
July 17, 2017
I first met Tom when he returned to work at the Durham Crown Attorney's Office. While we didn't always agree on things, he was always a consummate professional, a fierce advocate, and never made things personal. He was a great example to his colleagues on both sides of the criminal bar. It is with great sadness that I learn of his passing this morning. He will be greatly missed. To Joanne and family, my deepest condolences.
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