Bernard FITZ-GERALD Obituary

Bernie, words can never quite capture the beautiful human you are and words can never quite convey what an honour and privilege it is to have you as my running Granddad. These words below are as close as I can get and they're sent with all my love x


I think of the way the moon kisses the sky. Marama's awhi encasing the tiresome threads. Of day's colours as they fade into a resilient pink. Inky ambers. Bleeding hues. Running together to tell the story. Of aroha. Of grit. Of faith. Patches where day has held so tight. Clinging through relentless wave after wave. Never willing to cease the art of kind. Or close their eyes too soon. They are the stars that glow without end. Holding space for others still wading through. I think of the way you held me. While rivers tried to swim back up my face. I think of the way you hugged me close. When all those weary colours faded into an incompatible grey. I think of the way you encased me. With all the wisdom. Pragmatism. And kind. Folding me into the phenomenal person that is you. And I am reminded once more of the moon. Of how she pours light out so that the others can rest. Holding space until dawn brings fresh strength anew.

Dear Jackie & Family

To a life well lived

Thank you Bernie for all your encouragement and advice over the years we were members of the Hamilton Marathon Clinic.
I will remember the memories and laughter we shared.
The ultimate gentleman right to the end.
You will never be forgotten. Forever in our hearts.

May the lord comfort you all at this sad time and surround you with his peace.

Lynda & Mark Anderson

Bernie - may you rest in peace. I have very fond memories of how supportive you were to me and our family when I lost my own father some 44 years ago. That is something that I will never forget and always cherish. My sympathies to Jackie (my second Mum back in the day),Gerard, Christine and all the family. The forest has lost another tall Totara but one that will never be replaced.

Deepest condolences to the Fitzgerald family. My father, Jim Daly and Bernie were life time running mates.
RIP Bernie
Marian Partington

Bernie, you were the true father of our running family. A generous, loving gentleman. At 60 you finished the Boston Marathon in just over 3 hours.
God you were good!
God... you will be sorely missed!
But never forgotten.
Run like the wind Bernie, run like the wind.

RIP Dearest Bernie. Wonderful memories of your running career. My friend always , never forgotten.

Bernie no more calling to your home bringng you a blueberry pie or keeping you informed of club news,a true gentleman loved by all Hamilton Marathon Clinic members, love to Jackie. Diane & Roy Oldham x

A life well lived it is now time to rest in peace with the Lord.Wonderful memories of running days past & your wise advice & support. Condolences to Jackie & family RIP dear Bernie

FITZ-GERALD, Bernie:
Much loved father of Chris and poppa of Leon and Cameron. Our mentor, king of "dad" jokes, coach and part time super hero.

FITZ-GERALD, Bernie:
Highly respected patron and valued member of Hamilton Marathon Clinic. Bernie, running was your world and you were loved and respected by all members. Love to Jackie and family.

FITZ-GERALD,
Bernard Edward (Bernie):
Much loved and loving and caring brother and brother-in-law of Cecelia Fitz-Gerald and Roly Coombes, and admired uncle of Andrea, Edward, Helen, Richard, Loretta, and James.
You have run your last race and kept the faith, now rest peacefully dear Bernie.