Walter Lewis Fitzgerald

Walter Lewis Fitzgerald, of The Woodlands, TX, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 67 on September 16, 2024. He will be remembered for his immense love for his family, professional accomplishments, and a life filled with joy, laughter, and friendship.

Born in Houston on June 4, 1957, he spent his life dedicated to his loved ones and his community. Walter graduated from Hardin High School in 1975 and married Jan Stachura on May 19, 1979. His marriage to Jan was a testament to true partnership and love, spanning 45 years. Together, they raised a beautiful family who were the joy of his life.

Walter graduated from Sam Houston State University with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Accounting in 1979 and was inducted into the Sam Houston State University College of Business Administration Hall of Honor in 2011. He retired in 2014 from CenterPoint Energy, where he was the Chief Accounting Officer. Prior to joining CenterPoint in 2001, he worked for the Dow Chemical Company for 22 years in several Financial leadership positions.

He was also an active supporter of SHSU, serving as a member of the SHSU President Circle, the College of Business Advisory Board, and the SHSU Alumni Board of Directors. In 2007, he and his wife, Jan, established the Dixie Meyers Accounting Scholarship Endowment to help first generation students majoring in accounting in memory of his mother. He was honored to give the SHSU commencement speech in Spring 2016. Additionally, he served on numerous civic and charitable boards, including Make-A-Wish Foundation and Santa Maria Hostel.

In his personal life, Walter found pleasure in many activities. He was an avid golfer and marathon runner, completing 20 marathons. He was always pushing himself to achieve new goals. Most recently, he took to practicing the trumpet again and learning Spanish. He loved to travel and explore new places, often accompanied by his wife Jan and close friends. He cherished spending time with friends, sharing stories and laughter over a good glass of bourbon.

A man of quiet strength, Walter was always there with a helping hand or a listening ear for those who needed it. His warmth touched the lives of many, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who knew him.

Walter was preceded in death by his parents, Dixie Meyers and Walter Fitzgerald, Sr., and his precious daughter, Michelle Fitzgerald. Their memories held a special place in his heart, and he carried them with him always.

Walter is survived by his loving wife, Jan Fitzgerald, and their children: Melissa Fitzgerald McLaughlin and her husband Patrick, Maegan Fitzgerald Nappier and her husband Alex, Matthew Fitzgerald, and Michael Fitzgerald. He was a proud grandfather to Riley, Ryder, and Reid Nappier, whose presence brought him great happiness.He is also survived by his brother, Phil Fitzgerald and his wife Amy, and his sister, Karen Lemker and her husband Mike. He was a loving uncle to several nieces and nephews. Walter was a cherished brother who remained close to his siblings throughout his life.

Walter’s life was a reminder that true wealth is measured in the love you give and receive. Most importantly, Walter was at peace, secure in his faith. He will be greatly missed and forever remembered. His legacy will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Walter’s memory to Sam Houston State University (the Dixie Meyers Accounting Scholarship Endowment or the Bearkats Champion Fund Endowment) https://www.shsu.edu/dept/university-advancement/giving.html

Donations may also be made to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, or a charity of your choice.

A visitation for Walter will be held Monday, September 23, 2024 from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM at Forest Park The Woodlands Funeral Home & Cemetery, 18000 Interstate 45 S, The Woodlands, TX 77384. A celebration of life will occur Tuesday, September 24, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. A graveside service will occur Tuesday, September 24, 2024 from 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM at Forest Park The Woodlands Cemetery. A catered reception will occur immediately afterwards from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM at Forest Park The Woodlands Funeral Home, 18000 Interstate 45 South, The Woodlands, Texas 77384.