Joe W. Fitzgerald, 78, of Muhlenberg Twp., passed away on Thursday, October 29, 2026 in the Reading Hospital. He was the husband of Lori A. (Frey) Fitzgerald. They were married on December 29, 2016 and would have celebrated ten years of marriage.

Born in Beckley, West Virginia, he was the son of the late Troy and Ada (Wickline) Fitzgerald. Joe was a U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam War. He worked as a salesman for many different industries. He was a hard worker and made sure to provide for his family. Joe was a member of Alsace Lutheran Church, Reading. He loved cooking; the Yankees and Giants; and enjoyed collecting sports cards and memorabilia. Joe enjoyed spending quality time with his children and family. He especially enjoyed celebrating Halloween and dressing up with his children. Joe and Lori also enjoyed going to Applebee's for karoake. The staff became their "family".

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children: Becky Erbe, wife of Chris; Joe Fitzgerald, Jr., husband of Jessica; and Cheri Burkhardt, wife of Pete; seven grandchildren: Dominic, Kaylee, Corey, Violette, Jayce, Anthony and Jasmine. He is also survived by a brother: Dennie Fitzgerald, husband of Margaret; his former wives: Margaret Fitzgerald and Mary Gioe Anodide (the mother of Joe's children); and several nieces and nephews and their families. Joe was predeceased by his siblings: Rosie Fitzgerald, Gloria McCurdy, Patricia Fitzgerald, Tommy Fitzgerald and Troy Fitzgerald, Jr.

A viewing will be held at Alsace Lutheran Church, 2201 Kutztown Road, Reading on Friday 9:00 to 11:00 am. The service will begin at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be sent to the Alzheimer's Association - Southeastern Pennsylvania Chapter. Leibensperger Funeral Homes, Inc., Leesport is in charge of arrangements. For online condolences, please visit, www.leibenspergerfuneralhomes.com.