Shirley Y. Fitzgerald

Shirley Y. (Fritch) Fitzgerald was born May 11, 1942, the daughter of Charles and Ruth Fritch. She was reunited with them on February 20, 2014 at the Mercy Hospice in Johnston.

Shirley graduated from Boone High School and the Iowa College of Beauty. As her cosmetology business grew she eventually became the owner/operator of the Franklin Plaza Beauty Salon in Des Moines. She enjoyed life-long friendships with many of her customers. After ending that career she transitioned to becoming a Pharmacy Technician for Dahl’s; first at the Merle Hay location and later at the Waukee store. She loved her fellow co-workers and customers and never knew a stranger.

In addition to her Bible Studies classes with BSF, Shirley had numerous hobbies and crafts including cross-stitch and painting. As a military spouse, she was proud of her country and was the best “wingman” an airman could ever have. She was a warm, caring person who will be missed.

Survivors include her best friend and husband of thirty-nine years, Gary; siblings, Mary Lou (George) Olauson of Des Moines, Joan Sauer of Boone; and numerous nieces and nephews. Shirley was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Charlene Stewart and infant sister, Ellen.

Funeral services will be held at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church in West Des Moines on Tuesday, February 25, 2014 at 10:30 a.m. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Burial will be at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter, Iowa. Arrangements are being handled by Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Iowa Donor Network, St. Jude’s Children’s hospital or the Wounded Warrior Project. Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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