Bill Fitzgerald dies at 86; masters pioneer had Hall of Fame career
Bill Fitzgerald, a World War II veteran who survived D-Day and competed in the first USA masters nationals in 1968, died Monday of a massive stroke in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, says his longtime friend and neighbor Avery Bryant. Bill was 86. A former systems analyst, Bill won the 440 (54.4) and 880 (2:04.3) at age 43 in the inaugural San Diego nationals, and went on to set world records in the middle distances — even running a 2:01.1 half-mile at age 50. In 1969, he was named the national meet’s outstanding athlete, reported Sports Illustrated. In 2000, he was inducted into the USATF Masters Track Hall of Fame.
Bill (far left) competed in early world masters meets and won many titles.
Bill’s stroke followed recent surgery for a hip replacement, Avery says.
Modest services for Bill were held Thursday, Avery says, but a military service may be held in the future. “He’s a war hero,” Avery told me in a phone chat today. “He was a fantastic runner and a great guy. It’s a sad day. … I am honored that I did know him.”
Bill is survived by his wife, Jean, who can be reached at 6932 Starstone Dr., Rancho Palos Verdes CA 90275. He also leaves behind three sons, a daughter and many grandchildren (and perhaps one great-grandchild), says Avery, who ran on many relays with Bill in the 1970s and 1980s.
4 Responses
Another very hard-hitting competitor gone. Sadly, there are just a few masters athletes left who suited up for the big one (World War II).
Bill had a lot of admirers back in the day, and why would he not have? A 2:01.1 half mile at age 50? The man could gallop.
I am saddened to hear of Bill’s passing. He was a gentleman, a fantastic athlete, a mentor and an inspiration in many ways. Bill personified the good things about participation and sportsmanship.
My Dad, Jim Hartshorne, had nothing but awe and respect for Bill Fitzgerald. They raced against each other at least 3 times in the inaugural National Masters Track Championships in ’68 and the 2nd nationals in ’69. Dad was 2nd to Bill in the 880 in ’68 (2:04 high to Bill’s 2:04 low)but won the mile 4:44?). I don’t think Bill raced the mile that first year. In 1969 Dad was just behind Bill in both the 440 and the 880, but was fortunate not to race Bill in the 2 mile where I believe Bill was also a gold medal winner. Dad was a year older than Bill. Dad took me to the ’69 nationals in Balboa Park as a cub photographer where I had the pleasure to meet Bill.
He was one of the more remarkable athletes I met at the event, and I had the chance to meet many exceptional people, including organizer David Pain, and long distance Olympian, Dick Packard. Bill was truly gifted . . raced like a gazelle and had a sprinter’s kick. I have a picture of him in my hallway on the top of the medal’s stand where he is looking at the other 5 finishers in the 440 as if to say “you guys made it all happen, I’m just glad to be here.” Bill set the standard early that many of us try to emulate. Just wish I had his kick.
Thank you for posting this image, and memories. Poppy always lit up when he spoke of running and friends he ran with.
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