Madeline Contegni Obituary

Madeline Dorothy Venezia Fitzgerald Contegni passed away peacefully on January 24, 2026, after living a long, blessed, and extraordinary life. She was born on April 18, 1928, to Peter and Catherine Venezia and was raised by her immigrant parents in Haverhill, Massachusetts, along with her brother Angelo and sister, Shirley Buckley.

After college, Madeline began her professional life in the exciting new airline industry, working as an early stewardess for American Airlines. It was during this time that she met the first great love of her life, Edward J. Fitzgerald, a pilot for Pan American Airways. The two were married on Memorial Day in 1954 and spent the next 14 years building a happy life together. Madeline became a devoted homemaker and loving mother to their five sons until tragedy struck when Ed was diagnosed with melanoma and passed away in August of 1968.

Though devastated and encouraged by family to return to Massachusetts, Madeline made the brave decision to remain in Ridgefield, Connecticut, believing it was best for her boys. This choice marked the beginning of an inspiring new chapter. She entered the real estate profession and quickly forged a remarkably successful career. Soon after, she co-founded Fitzgerald & Hastings with her partner Ray Hastings, which became one of the most successful real estate agencies in Ridgefield.

Madeline's indomitable optimism, infectious smile, and genuine love for her community made her one of Ridgefield's greatest ambassadors. A true pioneer, she thrived as a businesswoman in the 1970s and 1980s, succeeding in a male-dominated field through talent, intelligence, and sheer determination. In addition to her success in Real Estate, Madeline was a successful investor and co-founder of retail businesses in Ridgefield, including Ridgefield Bring N' Buy which still operates today. Her accomplishments led to her being invited to serve as the sole woman on the inaugural Board of Directors of Village Bank.

Throughout her professional success, Madeline never lost sight of what mattered most to her-raising her five sons.

In 1977, Madeline found love again with her second great love, John Contegni. Together they joyfully blended their families-five sons and four daughters-while balancing two dynamic careers. With grace, humor, and love, they built a warm home filled with laughter and cherished memories.

Madeline's career culminated in the successful sale of her business to Connecticut Realty in 1996. She and John then embraced an active retirement filled with travel, winters in Florida, bridge games, volunteer work, and above all, time with their ever-growing family.

John, her beloved husband of nearly 49 years, passed away on November 21, 2025. She was also pre-deceased by her step-daughter, Adrienne.

Above all else, Madeline will be remembered for her unwavering positivity, encouragement, and boundless love. She had an extraordinary gift for making people believe in themselves. To her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, she was their biggest fan-each one, in her eyes, was the best and capable of anything.

As her family, we can never fully thank her for all she gave us-the sacrifices she made, the love she poured out, and the constant encouragement to live successful, happy, and meaningful lives.

Madeline is survived by her devoted sons, step-daughters and their spouses: Jim and Lila Fitzgerald, Brian and Cecelia Fitzgerald, Mark and Andree Fitzgerald, Neil and Shelly Fitzgerald, and Steve and Jackie Fitzgerald, Cheryl (Contegni) and Chet Atkins; Karen Contegni, and Liz (Contegni) and Tommy Favazzo, as well as her Twenty-one grandchildren and Thirteen great-grandchildren, all of whom will carry her legacy forward.

Family and friends will be received on Friday, February 6, 2026 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Kane Funeral Home; 25 Catoonah Street, Ridgefield. A funeral mass will be celebrated on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at 10:00 AM in Saint Mary's Church; 55 Catoonah Street, Ridgefield. Interment will take place in Saint Mary's Cemetery in the Spring. Following the funeral mass all are invited to gather with the family at the Ridgefield Community Center - The Lounsbury House; 316 Main Street, Ridgefield.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to RVNA Health and Hospice.