David John Henry “Fitzy” FitzGerald, 74, of Seabrook, NH, passed away peacefully on August 25, 2026, at Exeter Hospital after a long illness.
David was born on August 22, 1952, in Lowell, MA, the beloved son of the late Raymond J. FitzGerald and the late Kathleen M. (Hann) FitzGerald. He was a graduate of Lowell High School, Class of 1970, and dedicated more than 47 years of his life to working for the local railroad, where he eventually became a foreman.
David was a man who lived life on his own terms and was, without a doubt, unforgettable. Known affectionately as “Fitzy,” he was boisterous, loud, stubborn, joyful, and always ready with a joke. He had a way of entering every room with jazz hands and a bad joke, making sure his presence was known. He even had his own vocabulary, filled with made-up words and names that became part of the unique language of those who knew and loved him. David was a true force of nature who touched countless lives throughout his 74 years.
Motorcycles were an important part of David’s life, and there was only one choice for him, a Harley-Davidson. His Road King was his preferred ride, and he loved the freedom that came with being on the open road.
David also loved the beach and could find happiness at just about any stretch of sand where he could relax. Whether sitting in the sand or heading straight into the water, he was never one to let much stand in the way of enjoying himself, much to the chagrin of many a lifeguard over the years.
Loon Mountain held a special place in David’s heart as well. He loved his seasonal residence overlooking the Pemigewasset River and the mountain, where he could enjoy the beauty and peacefulness of the area. He was also a devoted lover of old movies and possessed an impressive knowledge of film. Among his favorites were Stand by Me and The Shawshank Redemption.
During the holidays, Fitzy was affectionately known as “Santa” to one and all at various family gatherings over the years. It was a role he genuinely loved, bringing his own brand of humor, joy, and larger-than-life personality to the season.
Fitzy was truly one of a kind. His loud laugh, endless jokes, stubborn spirit, made-up words, unmistakable personality, and ability to turn an ordinary moment into a memorable one will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He leaves behind a lifetime of stories, laughter, and memories that will continue to bring smiles to those who loved him.
David shared 13 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Paula K. (Kingsley) FitzGerald.
He is survived by his three children, Hillary Rocheleau and her husband, Jeremy, of Nashua, NH; Melissa Day and her husband, Nick, of Nashua, NH; and Jason Cimon of Nashua, NH; his grandchildren, Elizabeth Chattri and her husband, Animesh, Jonathan, Haley, Alanisah, Evangelinah, Jasyk, and Jaylah; and his great-grandson, August.
He is also survived by his siblings, Patricia Gardner of Nashua, NH; Colleen Morrow of Tewksbury; Pamela Blanchette and her husband, Norman, of Nashua, NH; Kevin Paul FitzGerald of Lynn; and Raymond J. FitzGerald and his wife, Collette, of Dracut; as well as many nieces and nephews and grandnieces and grandnephews. He also shared 25 years of his life with his former wife, Patricia Donnelly of Nashua, NH, with whom he remained connected through the many years they shared together.
In addition to his parents, David was predeceased by his sister, Nancy Erin FitzGerald.
Relatives and friends are invited to his visitation on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at McDonough Funeral Home, with a funeral service beginning at 7:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in David’s memory to a charity of the donor’s choice.