Joanne Irene Fitzgerald

Joanne Irene Fitzgerald (Nee: LaPapa) of Maricopa, Arizona passed away peacefully January 29, 2024 surrounded by her loving family. Joanne was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. She and her husband, Roger, first made their home in Chicago, then later moved to the suburbs including Alsip, Evergreen Park, and finally Elburn, Illinois to raise their children. Joanne and Roger moved to their chosen place of retirement, Chandler, Arizona, in 2006. They then later moved to Maricopa, Arizona where they have resided since 2010.

Joanne is survived by her beloved husband of 62 years, Roger J. Fitzgerald Jr., and three loving daughters, Lynne Marie (Leon) Kuhn, Kathleen Ann Wilson, and Loraine (Michael) Kott. Joanne was a proud and loving grandmother of five grandchildren: Nicholas (Suzy) Gusman, Britten (David) Webster, Eric Kuhn, Trace (Macey) Kott, and Camille Kott. Joanne was a great grandmother to five great grandchildren. 

Joanne is preceded in death by her parents, Nicholas and Irene LaPapa (Nee: Cozzie), two brothers, Nicholas and James LaPapa, and two sisters, Lois Nagle and Mary Kelley. 

Joanne loved more than anything to spend time with her family and dear friends. Joanne and Roger always enjoyed going to the casino to try their luck at playing the slots. She enjoyed watching movies and shows, especially Chicago Wednesday, when we knew not to call during that time. You could always find Joanne laughing, playing games, dancing, or listening to her favorite music. She loved hearing about the milestones in her grandchildren or family members' lives, and seeing the photos and videos of the silly things that their kids or pets would do. 

Joanne was truly one of a kind. To know her was to love her. We will remember her infectious laugh, fun loving spirit, giving nature, and vibrant personality forever. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Joanne’s name to some of her favored charities:

• ASPCA 
• Shriners Hospital for Children
• St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
• Wounded Warrior Project

Any contributions/donations would be greatly appreciated. 

Please join us in remembering and honoring the life of Joanne. 

Services will be held on Monday,  April 29, 2024 at St. Patrick Parish in St Charles, Illinois. There will be a 9:30 AM Visitation, and a 10:30 AM Funeral Mass. A luncheon will follow the service at McNally's Pub in St.Charles. All are welcome to attend and honor the life of Joanne. 

St. Patrick Parish

6N491 Crane Road 

St. Charles, IL 60175

9:30 AM - Visitation

10:30 AM - Funeral Mass

A luncheon following:

McNally's Pub

109 W. Main Street

St. Charles, IL 60174