Obituary of Mariann Fitzgerald

Fitzgerald, Mariann Fagan Mariann (Margaret Mary) Fagan Fitzgerald, 83, passed away on the August 22, 2011, at her residence in Naperville, surrounded by her loving family. She was the daughter of Elizabeth (Elsie) (Gallagher) and James R. Fagan, long-time residents of Joliet and Chicago. Mariann was born in Joliet on September 25, 1927, where she resided until moving to Naperville. She was a devoted and cherished member of St. Raymond Nonnatus and St. Jude's in Joliet, and Our Lady of Mercy in Aurora since 2000. Mariann graduated from Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart High School in Lake Forest, IL, in 1944, and continued her education at Barat College in Lake Forest, where she majored in psychology and education, and graduated in 1948. While at Barat, Mariann became actively involved in the French, ski and golf clubs. Mariann possessed a deep love of life and a relentless passion for learning through her entire career, which started with her work for several years for Bishop Romeo Blanchette in the Joliet Diocese Chancery office. She then embarked on a wonderful teaching journey, beginning in the Joliet School District and then molding third and fourth graders for 18 years in the Troy School District until retiring in 1988. Blessed with an indomitable positive Irish sprit, an unwavering Catholic faith and a wonderfully dry sense of humor, Mariann fully committed her life to her family. Whether spending time with her parents, sharing laughs with her sister or enjoying time with her children, Mariann always kept focus on the importance of family. She adored having her family together on Christmas Eve. While the menu never varied, her love and laughter increased year after year. She opened her door freely to old and new friends, always finding a place at her table for those that sought to join her family. Celebrating birthdays became an additional opportunity to share her love - celebrations that brought her an immense amount of joy and tightened Mariann's connection to her family in an unbreakable bond. Mariann's complete selflessness, wisdom, devotion to others and spirit of giving was infectious, making everyone she touched better for having known her. During her retirement, Mariann thoroughly enjoyed traveling. Annual trips to Siesta Key, FL, were a highlight - walking on the beach, reading a novel and keeping an eye on the clock for happy hour. Even her travels became a focal point for her devotion to her family as opportunities to give more of herself. She traveled to Cypress and the Greek isles for a wedding with her devoted sister and best friend, Rosann, made several trips to Colorado to visit her daughter Aimee and son-in-law Dean, and enjoyed the beaches of Kauai with her son John's family. In 1996, Mariann and her sister took their families to Ireland - a trip that included visits to relatives in County Westmeath, and to Cobh, County Cork, from where Mariann's family originally departed for the United States. Continuing Mariann's legacy are her two children Aimee (Dean) Bennett of Castle Rock, CO, and John (Becky) Fagan Fitzgerald of St. Charles, IL; sister Rosann F. Kohler of Naperville; and dear nephews Jeff (Kathy) Kohler of Centennial, CO, and James Kohler of Arvada, CO. In addition, her step-granddaughter Olivia Evers, great-niece Allie Kohler and great-nephews Brendan Kohler and James Kohler are blessed with wonderful memories to carry to their families. Her grandson, Padraig Fagan Fitzgerald, the light of wonder for Mariann - who possesses her indomitable positive spirit - will forever be blessed with Mariann's passions for life and learning. Mariann joins her parents, Elsie (1974) and James (1983), and brother-in-law Frank Kohler (1974) in eternal life. A Memorial Mass celebrating Mariann's life will be held on Friday, August 26, at 10:00 a.m. at the Church of St. Jude, 2212 McDonough Street, Joliet, with Reverend Richard Ross officiating. Inurnment to follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. The family will greet friends and family at the Church on Friday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of Mass. As it was Mariann's request, cremation rites have been accorded. Go n-éirí on bóthar leat. In lieu of flowers, memorials in her name to the Church of St. Jude are greatly appreciated. Arrangements by: FRED C. DAMES FUNERAL HOME 3200 Black at Essington Rds., Joliet For information: 815-741-5500