Denise H. Fitzgerald Obituary
Denise Diane Hurteau Fitzgerald, 64, of Rockport, MA, loving mother, sister, aunt, cousin and friend, passed away after a long battle with Multiple Sclerosis, on Monday, September 12, 2022.
She was born in New Haven, CT and spent her childhood years in West Haven, CT. She moved to the North Guilford, CT area after finishing high school. She lived there with her Grandmother Eva Hurteau for years, who was a profound mother figure in Denise's life. In her late twenties and early thirties, Denise was a stay-at-home mother in Old Saybrook, CT while her children were young. She then relocated to Middletown, CT for seventeen years before moving to Rockport, MA in 2013 to be closer to her twin daughters.
She was a lifelong learner with a passion for sewing, gardening, history and working with her hands. She was an avid reader, loving mostly non-fiction biographies and history subjects. Most noteworthy, she had a bigger than life personality–leaving an impression with whomever she met. She was well-loved and appreciated for her inquisitive nature, laughter and unique, sassy sense of humor. For those closest to her, she certainly was valued and admired for her raw authenticity and humor.
Denise will always be remembered for her big smile and bigger-than-life heart. While she lived frugally, she often gave to the Wounded Warrior Project–a non-profit near-and-dear to her heart. She was at her best when helping a daughter, friend, family member or neighbor. She often shared her love through written word or a thoughtful gift. Throughout her time, in Rockport, MA, she fell in love with her neighbors within Pigeon Cove, Rockport, MA. She was a friend to all. Denise especially was fond of the fishermen in Pigeon Cove Harbor, often bringing them a beverage after a hard day's work.
She will forever be known for her big (and many) beach hats, red lipstick, incredible tan, silver bracelets and earrings and an endless coffee in hand. If you saw her, dressed like this—Denise was likely on the way to the beach–her favorite place in all the world. Remember her here.
Denise is predeceased by her parents, William R. Hurteau Jr. of Orleans, MA and Dolores "Diane" Christe Hurteau of West Haven, Connecticut and brother, William R. Hurteau, III. She is also predeceased by her aunt and uncle, June Hurteau Strawson & Vincent Strawson of North Branford, CT as well as her uncle, Donald Hurteau of North Guilford, CT.
Denise is survived by her twin daughters, Meghan Fitzgerald of Portsmouth, NH and Carey (Nick Tolentino) Fitzgerald of Exeter, NH. She is also survived by siblings Paul Hurteau of Bridgeport, CT and Michelle Hurteau of Killingworth, CT and nieces and nephew Ashley, Bill and Christie along with many cousins, and friends.
A special thank you to so many that helped Denise over the years. Most notably (in no particular order): Caregiver Jenn Dundon; Dr. Amy Esdale and her nurse Theresa; Lahey at Home; Giacqueline Parisi RN; Addison Gilbert Hospital staff; Steele 1 staff; Senior Care; Rockport Police and Fire Departments; Harborlight Community Partners; Dawn Gross and all her Pigeon Cove Neighbors—your dedication, love and support never went unnoticed. And to Cindy DiZio, thank you for embracing Denise into the Cape Ann Community and always loving our mother the way we did.
Visiting hours will be held on Sunday, September 18, 2022, from 2pm-4pm at Greeley Funeral Home located at 212 Washington St, Gloucester, MA 01930. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to MS FOUNDATION at https://mssociety.donordrive.com. Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, September 21, 2022, at 10am at St. George Church located at 33 Whitfield St, Guilford, CT 06437.
