Matthew P. Fitzgerald Bio
Shortly after graduating from Cardinal Hayes High School in 1953, Matt joined the United States Armyand served for two years. Like many of his generation, he attended college while working full time,studying police science at CUNY Baruch. He graduated in 1963 and went on to earn a Masters of SocialWork from Fordham University in 1966.Matt proudly served the New York City Police Department from 1957 to 1967 as patrolman andinvestigator. There, he experienced some of the best and the worst his city had to offer. In addition toproviding the fodder for countless stories, this work fueled Matt's commitment to public service.In 1968 the family moved to Hyde Park where Matt began a 35 year career. He was a Professor ofCriminal Justice at Dutchess Community College and adjunct instructor at Marist College. He is still fondlyremembered by many former students for the incredible impact he had on their lives.He was elected Hyde Park Town Justice in 1977 and sat on the bench till he retired in 2003. Widelyregarded as tough but fair, Judge Fitzgerald was often elected with the endorsement of both political parties.Nothing surpassed his love of Ireland and his passion for introducing his grandchildren to traditions, music,stories and festivities through many cherished years together. At Ceilis Matt's soda bread was legendary.His fundraising abilities were also legendary. He was the top fundraiser for the Ancient Order of Hibernianswhere his penchant for selling raffle tickets to help children afford to attend parochial schools was, in aword, outstanding.Matt touched the life of every person he met. His passing will leave a large hole in his community and hisfamily. A poster hung in his office asking simply the following words: "Will it matter that I was?" We'resure everyone who knew Matthew will answer "Yes!"