Michael J. Fitz

Michael J. Fitz, 72 of Zanesville, passed away unexpectedly on February 6, 2023 at Ohio State Medical Center in Columbus. Mike was born on April 4, 1950 in Zanesville.  He was the son of the late Paul E. “Squealer” and Margaret E. (Hartman) Fitz. He graduated from Philo High School in 1968, he then furthered his education at Muskingum Area Technical College. He worked at Burnham for 25 years, continued his career at 5B’s embroidery and eventually retired from AutoZone Distribution Center. Mike was an avid Harley rider and was a lifetime member of the HOG club. If he wasn’t at a car show, in particular the Good Guys car show you could find him at one of his 6 grandchildren’s sporting events. He very rarely missed a game or school event, and the memories he made will last a lifetime. He and Shirley loved to travel especially their trip to Hawaii and their many trips to Myrtle Beach. In his down time he enjoyed tinkering on his 1940 Rat Rod and working on anything to show off his artistic side.

Mike is a member of the American Legion Post #29.  He served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam Conflict, where he earned numerous awards including the Purple Heart.  In 2016 he was honored to be part of the US Army Honor Flight. Mike is survived by his wife of 46 years, Shirley A. (Carnes) Fitz, whom he married April 2, 1976; his son, Michael (Abby) Fitz; his step-daughter, Lisa (Jeff) Apple; his grandchildren, Carter, Campbell, and Colbie Fitz, Hayley, Jordan, and Luke Apple; his brother, Terry (Ida Lussier) Fitz; his two sister-in-law’s Linda (Dave) Sowers and Mary Lou (Bob) Wilson; his niece, Wendi (Pat) Hancock; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins; and his furry friends, Lilly, Macy, Zoe and Kit-kit. In addition to his parents, Mike is preceded in death by his brother, Gerry Fitz; his nephew, Matt Fitz; and his Yorkie, Maddie. In lieu of flowers, please consider making memorial contributions in Mike’s name to St Jude’s Charity or a Charity of your choice. Visitations will be 1 to 4 pm on Saturday, February 11, 2023 at the Farus Funeral Home of Duncan Falls.  Funeral Services will be 4 pm Saturday.  Pastor Jamie Harrop will officiate the service.  Full military honors provided by the VFW Post #1058 and the US Army Color Guard. A Private burial will be held in the Duncan Falls Cemetery at a later date.

www.farusfh.com