Alan Charles Fitzgerald

ALAN CHARLES FITZGERALD

February 16, 1953 – October 11, 2024

 The skies across Texas gained a true cowboy in every sense of the word when Alan Fitzgerald rode into the sunset. He was cleaning ditches in preparation for fall on his beloved farm that he cleared and established with his father when God called him home. He left us too soon, but in one of the ways he would have chosen to go. His other choices would have been horseback while working cows or on a South Texas sendero hunting whitetail!

He loved dancing to good music, riding good horses, and ranching good cows. In 2016 he was recognized in Wharton County as the Cattleman of the year. He liked quality equipment and farming good ground. He loved picking the best cotton, shooting the best rifles, big bucks, a nice campfire with close friends and a stiff drink! Alan always had a good story to tell, and like many cowboys, sometimes the truth got stretched…just a wee bit! He loved Lonesome Dove, Andy Griffith show, the song Neon Moon, ranch rodeo, and a good thick mesquite grilled ribeye with baked potato!

Welcoming him from above are his father and mother, Charles A. (C.A.) and Esther Wishert Fitzgerald. Numerous cowboys, cattlemen, farmers, hunters, friends and family awaited him, as well.

Left behind are his ever-enduring wife of fifty years, Debbie Otradovsky Fitzgerald along with their three sons and families: Jess Wade and Kristen Fitzgerald of Boling; James and Jillian Fitzgerald of Wharton; and John Fitzgerald of Wharton. Alan was a proud Papa to grandchildren Mia Rose, Olivia Claire, and Elliott James Fitzgerald, hoping all will continue in some way to follow in the family footsteps of cattle raisers, farmers, and hunters. He loved his sons equally, satisfied of the men they’ve become, not scared of hard work, hard play, or whatever challenges may arise.

Alan was #3 of six children, the only boy in a family of girls. Although there were naturally squabbles, there was much love among them. He leaves behind Becky Wyatt of Knoxville, TN, Patti Foyt of Tarkington, Terri Szabo of Sugarland, Gayle Lechler of Brenham, and Amy Fitzgerald of Bay City, along with many nieces and nephews. Somehow, throughout his life Alan managed to stay strong willed, but still spoiled by the many females in his family, (especially Mama).

Folks far and wide crossed paths with Alan as his custom harvesting enterprise took him across several states. Son Jess continues it today. The Walking U and Coastal cattle brands have been seen on thousands of cattle, as he ranched near and far from Wharton County.

Alan’s deer hunting escapades are countless. Above all attributes, Alan liked WIDE typical whitetail bucks! In 2017, Alan was inducted into the Muy Grande Hall of fame. His sharp shooting skills are legendary among certain circles, game wardens included. Many deer will be safe this season! The Chaparrosa Ranch won’t be the same without him. 

Alan displayed a tough image, but was generous to a fault, truly a kind man with a soft spot in his heart for many things. He loved his grandkids, his horses and his canines: Taco, Ivy and Sassy. Even a colorful barn rooster, Pete, provided Alan much entertainment and found himself a home for life.

Alan will live on in the lives and memories of many. Until we meet again, Alan, we know you’re saddled up riding the heavens above - happy trails to you. 

 Serving as pallbearers: Raul “Duck” Cantu Jr., Taylor Cline, Dillon Frankum, Cody Cerny, Clint Rawlinson, Garrett Rawlinson, Jason Peter, Louis Mahalitc.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity. 

Funeral services are under the direction of Wharton Funeral Home. Condolences may be left at whartonfuneralhome.com.