Stephen E. Fitzgerald

Stephen E. Fitzgerald, age 69, passed away peacefully at home with his loving wife of 47 years by his side on January 12, 2022.

Stephen was born in Anchorage, Alaska on December 30, 1952. He was the oldest of two sons of the late Edward and Patricia (Blake) Fitzgerald. Raised and educated in Norwood, MA, Steve was a 1971 graduate of Norwood High School. He briefly attended Massasoit Community College where he was a part of the hockey team before moving on to play Junior A hockey.

Stephen, or more affectionately known as Grampy to his grandchildren, married his beloved wife, Deborah A. (Ledin) on February 17, 1974 at the age of 21 at the First Congregational Church of Stoughton. They made their home in Walpole, MA.

The epitome of a people person, Stephen would start a conversation with anyone, anywhere, anytime. His personable nature led him from his milk truck route to a job in insurance that would turn into his life’s work. After learning the business, he decided that being his own boss was the best bet and opened his agency in the late 70s. The agency has been servicing clients for over 40 years and will continue to flourish under the direction of his two daughters.

A true adventurer, Stephen lived a very active lifestyle, always gearing up for the next challenge. From Ironman Triathalons, hiking Mt. Washington or Pike’s Peak and Spartan races to completing his first Boston Marathon in 2014 at the age 61. He was determined to pass that love of sports and adventure onto his grandchildren with frequent outings to the White Mountains of New Hampshire, Red Sox games or a fun vacation destination.

Stephen’s desire to be involved in the things he was passionate about led to a lifelong volunteer position at USA Hockey as a Risk Manager for the New England region. A position he took great pride in and enjoyed immensely. He passed his love of hockey onto his grandsons, who always loved skating with Grampy.

In addition to his wife Debbie, he leaves two daughters: Kristin and Pedro Fortuna of North Attleboro, MA and Colleen and her husband George Malakidis of North Attleboro, MA; four grandchildren: Morgan Fortuna, Anthony, Grant and Carolina Malakidis; his sister in law Michelle Fitzgerald of Norwood, MA, wife of his late brother Blake Fitzgerald ; and many loving nieces and nephews along with extended family members, friends and colleagues.

Relatives and friends are cordially invited to attend visitation on Tuesday, January 18, 2022 from 4 to 7pm in the James H. Delaney and Son Funeral Home, 48 Common Street, Walpole.

All are invited to gather for a Memorial Service January 19, 2022 at 11am at the United Church in Walpole, 30 Common St, Walpole. Interment will follow in Terrace Hill Cemetery, Washington St, Walpole.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the USA Hockey Foundation, 1775 Bob Johnson Drive, Colorado Springs CO 80906 (www.usahockeyfoundation.com).