James M. Fitzgerald

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of James Michael “Jim” Fitzgerald, 79, of Perth, NY. Jim passed away peacefully on Saturday November 15, 2025 at Fulton Center in Gloversville where he had been a resident since 2023 following an unfortunate house fire. 

Jim was born on August 5, 1946 in Amsterdam to the late Spencer Fitzgerald & Dora (Hilda) Franke Fitzgerald.

 Jim graduated from Perth Central School in 1965. 

Jim joined the U.S Air Force after high school and proudly served his country from 1965 to 1969 with the rank of Staff Sergeant. During his time in the Air Force Jim was stationed in Plattsburgh, Libya and Taiwan as an Aerospace ground equipment specialist. He received the Good Conduct Medal and the National Defense Service Medal during his active duty.

Jim worked at Mohasco Industries and then at Fiber Glass Industries (FGI) in Amsterdam as a machinist from 1976 until his retirement. 

Jim was an avid amateur (HAM) radio operator. His call sign was “WB2NLD”, which he proudly had as his car license plate. He was a member of the Tryon Amateur Radio Club and the American Radio Relay League. 

Jim also enjoyed his cars and in his younger days, drove several sporty Camaros. Jim was what you would have considered a “techie”, before techies were even a thing! He always had the newest computer equipment and electronics and it was always fun to hang out with Uncle Jim and play on his computers. 

Jim was a simple and unassuming guy. But, his love for his family was unwavering and he was always at every holiday gathering, birthday party and important life events. He remembered all of us on every special occasion with a card and some spending money tucked inside. He always showed up at holiday gatherings with a bottle of wine and some stories to share. He was a wonderful brother and uncle to us. 

In addition to his parents, Jim was predeceased by his sister, Maureen Fitzgerald and his nephew, Shawn Fitzgerald. 

He is survived by his brother and sister-in-law, John & MaryAnn Fitzgerald of Gloversville, his niece Wendy Moore and her husband Jeffrey of Broadalbin, his great-nephew, Tyler Fitzgerald and his great-niece, Emma Moore, both of Broadalbin. Several cousins also survive him. 

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Jim's family on Saturday, November 22 from 9:30a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Riley Mortuary, 110 Division St., Amsterdam. A committal service with military honors will follow at 11:30 at St, Mary's Cemetery Chapel,, Fort Johnson, NY.

Memorial contributions can be made to Perth Volunteer Fire Department, 4080 State Highway 30, Amsterdam, NY 12010 or to a charity of ones choice.