Edgar James Jr, 'Gerry' FitzGerald, 86

Edgar James FitzGerald Jr., lovingly known as "Gerry," passed away peacefully in Spokane, Wash., at the age of 86. He leaves behind a lasting legacy of love, mentorship and service.

Gerry was born Oct. 22, 1939, in Wallace, Idaho, to Edgar James FitzGerald and Marian Lane FitzGerald. He attended Our Lady of Lourdes Academy in Wallace, graduated from Wallace High School in 1957 and later attended Gonzaga University. In 1962, he proudly began his service in the United States Navy.

After completing his honorable service in the United States Navy, Gerry continued his education and earned a degree in Audiology. Driven by a passion for helping others hear and communicate more fully, he established his own audiology practice in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Over the years, he built a respected career marked by compassionate care, professionalism and dedication. Through his work, he improved the quality of life for countless patients and left a lasting legacy of kindness and service. 

For 54 years, Gerry dedicated himself to the Mt. Spokane Ski Racing program (S.S.R. A.), where his impact extended far beyond coaching. He served as a mentor, teacher, role model and friend, offering patience, encouragement and steadfast belief in every young athlete he guided. To Gerry, his racers became an extended family, and the lessons he shared endured well beyond the ski hill.

Gerry also found great joy on the waters of Lake Coeur d'Alene, where he shared countless cherished days with family and friends.

He will be remembered for his warm smile, kind heart, quiet strength, generosity and gift for making everyone feel welcome.

Gerry shared 41 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Ruby FitzGerald. He is lovingly survived by his sister, Mariann FitzGerald (Jon Large); his children, Jennifer Lyn FitzGerald (Steve Heberer), Edgar James FitzGerald III "Jamie," and Meaghan Maureen Marsh (Kenny); his grandchildren, James Tipton FitzGerald "J.T.," Nick Heberer, Ellesse FitzGerald, Claire Heberer, and Kellan FitzGerald; and his great-grandchildren, Theo and Malcolm.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Friday, Aug. 14, at St. Aloysius Church in Spokane. A celebration of life will immediately follow in the Hemmingson Center, Third Floor Ballroom, on the Gonzaga University campus. Family, friends, former racers and all whose lives Gerry touched are warmly invited to attend.

Gerry's legacy will continue to live on through his family, the athletes he guided and the countless people whose lives he touched with generosity, compassion and unwavering dedication. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.