Dennis Fitzgerald

Dennis Joseph Fitzgerald passed away on February 14th, 2025, at his home in Toronto.

Dennis was predeceased by his parents, Frank and Patricia (Downey) Fitzgerald. He is mourned by his siblings Bert, Pauline, Sheila, Stephen, Ann and Irene along with their respective spouses and children, plus a multitude of friends and relatives.

Dennis was born on April 16, 1965, in Corner Brook, NL where he lived for most of his childhood. He began honing his craft as an actor with Theatre Newfoundland and Labrador (TNL) and the Stephenville Theatre Festival. Dennis graduated from the National Theatre School of Canada in 1986. For several decades he worked with many well-loved theatre companies across the country. He also did some TV, film and voice-over work. Dennis had a flair for sketch comedy. He co-wrote and performed in several revues for Rising Tide Theatre and TNL, including one with his best friend, Lorne Pardy, also with whom he collaborated on a number of projects throughout his career. He directed productions for The Great Canadian Theatre Company (GCTC), Rising Tide Theatre, and Alberta Theatre Projects (ATP). Along with the above-mentioned, Dennis appreciated the support he received and many close friends he made working with the Atlantic Theatre Festival, Blyth Festival, Festival Antigonish, the Globe Theatre, Neptune Theatre, and the summer theatre festivals in Gros Morne and Trinity, NL, just to name a few. He was especially proud of his work in the productions of “A Guide to Mourning” and “Appetite” with ATP in 2000 as well as his work in “And Slowly Beauty” co- produced by Victoria’s Belfry Theatre and Ottawa’s National Arts Centre in 2012 and again with Toronto’s Tarragon Theatre in 2013.

Dennis loved the outdoors. At the first opportunity, he would escape to a campground, lake, river or bay to have a swim, take a boat out, enjoy the breeze and have some laughs with his dearest friends and loved ones. He loved all animals but had a special affinity with dogs. There wasn’t a canine around who didn’t become his best friend. In adolescence, he deeply mourned the loss of our dog Lady, and more recently, the loss of sweet pooch, Tequila. Dennis’ artistry wasn’t limited to performance. He loved to draw and was a master at caricature sketches. He wrote poetry, songs, and had a deep love of music, especially the Blues. His sense of mischief, play, and sharp wit at times got him into trouble. But, more often than not, they rendered us all helpless, in tears of laughter. We will miss him terribly.

Arrangements for cremation have been entrusted to Affordable Burials & Cremations. A private memorial with family will take place in NL this summer. Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to your charity of choice.