Kenneth George Fitzgerald Jr.

June 24, 1932 - December 28, 2016

Ken was surrounded by his family as he went home to our Lord on Wednesday, December 28th. Ken enjoyed a blessed and full life, which he shared with his high school sweetheart, and wife of 64 years, Helen Skov FitzGerald. Ken and Helen resided in Germany during Ken's service in the Army as a cryptanalyst and member of the 28th Infantry. After receiving an honorable discharge from the services, Ken returned home and drove truck for his dad's business, Santa Ynez Valley Freight, prior to devoting over 35 years of driving truck for the Buellflat Rock Company. Ken was active in the Santa Ynez Valley, his home that he loved. Ken was a member of the Solvang Volunteer Fire Department for 20 years, rising to the rank of Captain. He also served as President of the Danish Brotherhood for two years, was a member of the American Legion, Treasurer of the Bethania Lutheran Church Counsel, YFL coach, 4H Leader, and an umpire for youth baseball. Ken will be most remembered for his mischievous humor, resolute sense of justice, being firm but always fair, an unyielding integrity, and his unwavering love and support for his family and his country.

Ken is survived by his wife Helen and four of his five children: Tymmie LaRoe, Eileen Knotts (Danny), Ida FitzGerald, and Kelli Lundberg (Jeff). He also leaves behind his grandchildren: Derek (Kacey), Clayton, Shea (Erich), Levi, Eddie, and Karli; his great grandson, Justin; his brother David FitzGerald (Patti); and, his "sis"-in-law, Shirley Heap. Ken was preceded in death by his beloved son, Casey. A graveside military service will be held Wednesday, January 4, 2017 at 11 am at Oak Hill Cemetery in Ballard, followed by a luncheon at Bethania Lutheran Church Parish Hall.

And until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand.

Donations may be made to Bethania Preschool and Afterschool.