Shane was born in Petoskey, Michigan, to Robert D. Fitzpatrick and Marylu Gilbert Fitzpatrick. He graduated from Trinity High School in 1978 and from Washington and Jefferson College (B.A. 1982). He was then fortunate to have received a Rotary International Scholarship which allowed him to begin studies abroad. He attended Essex University in England, and graduated with a Ph.D. from Edinburgh University in Scotland in 1989.
Dr. Fitzpatrick taught at several colleges throughout his career. For the past 20 years, he was Associate Professor of Political Science and International Studies at Centenary University, Hackettstown, New Jersey. After 9/11, he became a specialist in global security issues and was a frequent consultant on counter-terrorism training for the New Jersey Department of Homeland Security. Dr. Fitzpatrick was also a frequent commentator on national and global events for regional media outlets.
Shane is survived by his mother, Marylu Fitzpatrick; his sister, Dana O’Korn; his brother-in-law George O’Korn; a niece Riley Fitzpatrick O’Korn; a nephew Casey Fitzpatrick O’Korn and a loyal companion Tina Tang.
A memorial service will be held at Trinity United Methodist Church, 213 Main Street, Hackettstown, New Jersey 07840, on Saturday (May 27th) at 2:00pm, with a reception to follow.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Cochran funeral home, 905 High Street Hackettstown NJ 07840. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.cochranfuneral.com/