Kenneth J. Fitzpatrick

Kenneth “Fitzy” J. Fitzpatrick, 63, of La Crosse, Wis., died Thursday, July 23, 2015 in Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center, La Crosse, Wis.

Ken contracted Polio when he was 3 months old. That resulted in multiple surgeries, wearing a body cast and braces. Despite his disability, it didn’t damper his spirit and his zest for life. He played little league baseball with his brother Ron, running the bases for him. He cruised up and down the Mississippi with his family and friends, climbed the bluffs and camped out in the families’ backyard all summer long in the 1960’s. He was the first to get his driver’s license in his class, and proudly drove his grandmother’s pink Rambler everywhere. He loved going to the Men’s Club and shooting pool and playing cards. He became one of the area’s best pool players and played in numerous leagues. In 1981his team won the international 8 Ball Tournament.

Kenny was very personable and made friends everywhere he went. He traveled with Dick and Ann’s Softball team. He enjoyed watching his nephews play baseball. He was a loving and caring son and brother. The world will be a little less colorful without him but he will always be remembered fondly by his family and friends.

He is survived by his mother Betty, two brothers; Tom (Holly) Fitzpatrick and Ron (Patty) Fitzpatrick and numerous nieces and nephews.

Ken was preceded in death by his father Merle and his brother Rick.

The family would like to thank everyone at Gunderson Lutheran for their compassionate care.

A funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 AM Friday, July 31, 2015, in Mary, Mother of the Church Parish, at St. Thomas More Catholic Church, 2006 Weston St., La Crosse. Rev. Brian Konopa will officiate. Family and friends may visit from 9:30 AM until the time of Mass in the church on Friday.