Ardis Fitzgerald

Ardis Rose (Pitsch) Fitzgerald, loving mom, grandma, and great-grandma, passed away on Wednesday, August 5, 2020, at the age of 82. Ardis was born on December 6, 1937, to Norman and Helen Pitsch. As a child, she was befriended by the wonderful family of Bud and Ila Ward, and with their 11 children, Ardis was adopted into their hearts and home.  Ardis was a kind and independent woman who worked hard providing for her family, retiring from General Motors in 1998, after 26 years of service.  Her hobbies included sewing, baking, crocheting, and gardening. She also enjoyed several trips to Las Vegas with her sister and playing Bingo. Ardis was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Joyce Curtis; and brother, Albert Pitsch.  She will be sadly missed by her children, Rick (Dawn) Gelock, Lauri (Brian) Harrington, and Joni Shepard; and her grandchildren and great-grandchildren whom she loved dearly.  According to her wishes, cremation has taken place and a private service will be held.  A service to celebrate Ardis’ life will be held later this fall. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions be made in Ardis’ memory to the Humane Society of West Michigan or to Kindred Hospice.