August 15, 1929 – March 27, 2017
It is with great sadness we regret to announce the passing of Herbert (Herb) Fisher.
Herb is survived by his loving wife of 67 years Irene, daughter Leslee Ann (Tim), sons Larry (Karen) and Kelly (Joddie) and granddaughters, Karlyn and Brittney. He is also survived by his brothers, Wally and Percy, his loyal cousin, Duffy Fisher (Joan), and his brother-in-law, Bill Sawka. Herb was predeceased by his parents Walter and Elsie Fisher. Dad was born and raised in Vernon, BC. In his younger years he loved playing hockey and excelled at it. He said he always wanted to be a professional hockey player and was invited to play in Edmonton. About the same time, he met Irene Sawka – she was a knockout. Between his dad Walter recently purchasing the hardware store from his father, Mick Fisher (his grandfather), and the love for our future mom to be Irene – his fate was sealed.
Dad’s career in the hardware store started in the late 1940’s, nearly spanning 70 years. He said he remembered taking in as little as $7 a day in that era. Walter Fisher struggled with cancer and died in 1955 at the young age of 48 years. Dad was left in charge to run the hardware store along with the help of his brothers until 1970. He was then joined by sons, Larry and Kelly, and later on daughter Leslee Ann. Dad took tremendous pride in his family working side by side as they still do today.
Throughout his life dad was a hard working honest and sincere individual, who respected and in return was respected by everyone. The type of individual you could do business with on a handshake. He was rich in old school values. Dad loved his business as he did his customers. He said his greatest pride was in serving his customers and the friendship and relationship that came with it was very important to him. Dad managed to run a very successful business for nearly 70 years without having used a calculator, cellphone, or computer.
Away from work dad enjoyed his yard and prized garden. Bordering on perfection the garden was laid out with mark and measure. All rows straight and tended to with pride. His chickens also received the same care and attention. All living long and happy years, knowing all they had to fear was old age. Dad was also very generous to family and friends, compassionate and understanding and always willing to help everyone.
The fishing trips to Bella Coola, Kitimat and Nimpo Lake with his best friends Alvin Poggemiller, Don Lemiski, Wally Hlina, Harold Siglet, Nick Turek and friends, were special times for him and we all enjoyed the stories that came about fact or fiction. A special thanks to our good friend, Bill Sengotta, for the Sunday trips with dad to all our secret spots. Erwin Hoffman was also a great friend and dad enjoyed his hunting and fishing trips and cruising with him. Cremation. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. A sincere thank you to all the staff at the Vernon Jubilee Hospital for all their consideration towards dad and our family. A special thanks to Dr. Yacyshyn who made dad’s time with family last as long and comfortable as possible. In lieu of flowers those friends wishing to make memorial contributions in memory of Herb may do so to the Vernon Jubilee Hospital Endowment Fund.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Vernon Funeral Home, Phone: 250 542 0155. Condolences may be offered at www.vernonfuneralhome.com