Gary Fisher, aged 81, took his last breath surrounded by his beloved family on October 11, 2024, at his residence in Tippecanoe Lake, Leesburg. Born to Johnnie and Janet Estep Fisher on March 12, 1943, Gary navigated a fulfilling journey marked by love, adventure, and a steadfast dedication to his vocations and pastimes.
His early years were spent exploring the facets of farm life. Being a passionate, committed farmer, Gary shaped his career with a relentless work ethic that left no room for compromise. Post-retirement, he devoted his time to serve ‘The Papers’, lending his consistent dedication to deliver newspapers and keep the community connected.
Perhaps the most definitive piece of his life was completed by his alma maters, Syracuse High School and Tri-State University in Angola. After graduating from Syracuse High School in 1962, Gary extended his thirst for knowledge and enrolled at the Tri-State University in Angola.
Gary’s story is amplified by his patriotic service to his country. He served in the Army National Guard, carrying out his duties with dignity and commitment until he was honorably discharged. He was a man driven by a profound passion for exploration and loved venturing out into the world. His travels led him to the picturesque terrains of the Caribbean. He had an innate love for the water, whether it was sailing on the graceful waves or scuba diving into the ocean’s depths. He reveled in each moment spent in or around the water. His love for water also found him on the banks of his resident Tippecanoe Lake quite often. Furthermore, he was an active disc golf player, his love for the sport signifying his fondness for an active lifestyle and outdoor activities.
Gary’s legacy is survived by his ex-wife and dear friend Esther Fisher, from Milford, and their children Joshua Fisher and Dominic Fisher from Leesburg and Kendallville respectively. His sons, John Fisher, Shawn Fisher, Adam Fisher, and Matthew Fisher, hail from Lakeville, Maryland, South Bend, and Michigan respectively. Gary’s heart bloomed with pride and joy for his 19 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, who brought immeasurable happiness into his life. Additionally, his siblings, Linda Neff and Guy Fisher, both residents of Syracuse, are part of the family that carries on his legacy.
Remembering the departed, it should be mentioned that Gary’s journey was marked by the loss of his parents, his daughter Jessica Rodriguez, his grandson Gideon Rodriguez, and his sister Vivian Mellinger.
Paying respect to his life and accomplishments, Titus Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Syracuse will host the funeral ceremony. Visitation will be held on October 15th from 3 pm to 7 pm, followed by a Life Celebration at the funeral home presided over by Pastor Sam Bennett on October 16th, beginning at 11 am. An hour of visitation is planned preceding the service. To mark the completion of his earthly journey, Gary’s mortal remains will finally rest in peace at the Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Milford immediately after the funeral ceremony. This solemn act will bring a fitting end to the narrative of a man who lived a life rich in love, adventure, and dedicated service.
