Dennis E. Fitzgerald, who on the 1st of May, 1912, was made city sealer of weights and measures and has continued in this position through the intervening years, was born in Racine, May 1, 1881, a son of Morris and Mary (Green) Fitzgerald, both of whom were natives of Ireland. As young people, they came to the United States and were married at Fall River, Massachusetts. At the time of the Civil war the father served the Union cause as a member of the navy. In 1880 he came to Racine, where he engaged in business as a contractor in the building of sewers up to the time of his demise, which occurred September 24, 1915. His widow still survives. Both were members of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in an early day and afterward became communicants of St. Rose Catholic church.
Dennis E. Fitzgerald, spending his youthful days under the parental roof, acquired his education in the parochial and public schools of Racine, eventually becoming a high school pupil. He started in the business world as an employee of the Racine Wagon & Carriage Company, where his industry and capability found recognition in promotion. For thirteen years he remained with that company, his record being at all times most creditable. On the lst May, 1912, he was appointed to the office of city sealer of weights and measures by Mayor W. S. Goodland, after passing the state civil service examination, and has since occupied that position in which his record has been most creditable and satisfactory.
On the 9th of October, 1905, Mr. Fitzgerald was united in marriage to Miss Tena Mockler, of Racine, a daughter of John and Christina (Ricoff) Mockler, and to them has been born one child, Marcellus. The parents are members of St. Rose Catholic church and Mr. Fitzgerald is now treasurer of the congregation. He also has membership with Belle City Camp, No. 39, Woodmen of the World, in which he is filling the office of clerk, and he belongs to Racine Aerie, No. 281, F. O. E., and to Charles Filer Camp of the Sons of Veterans. In politics he maintains an independent course, considering the capability of the candidates for office rather than their party affiliation. His has been an active life characterized by loyalty and capability in business circles, and the same qualities have been manifest since he has entered upon public office.