Gregory Francis Fischer, 83, Stuttgart passed away Monday, May 25 at Baptist Health Medical Center-Stuttgart.
A lifelong resident of Stuttgart, Gregory was born June 3, 1936, to George and Mathilda (Siems) Fischer. After graduating from Stuttgart High School in 1955, he devoted his life to faith, family, and farming. He dedicated a life of service to Holy Rosary CatholicChurch, serving several terms as Parish Council President. A fixture at every Holy Rosary event from Mass to fundraisers to Christmas decorating, Gregorylent his time as a lector, Eucharistic Minister, school building committee member, and a helping hand wherever one was needed. A charter member of theGrand Prairie Assembly Knights of Columbus, he served as grand knight and financial secretary.
A steadfast caretaker of God’screation, Gregory spent his life working the ground, just as his father and grandfather before him. He advocated for his fellow farmers as a member of the board of directors of the Stuttgart Riceland Dryer Association. He was recognized for his hard work by being named the 1987 North Arkansas County FarmFamily of the Year. Following the Fischer family’s recognition, he served on the Farm Family selection committee, playing a role in selecting North ArkansasCounty’s farming representatives, for many years to come.
Gregory supported the Stuttgartcommunity in a variety of ways, especially during the Wings Over the PrairieFestival and World’s Championship Duck Calling Contest. He was a member of the festival committee for many years and helped monitor contestants during theButch Richenback Youth Duck Calling Contest. He also served as a member of the Stuttgart Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.
Although he was referred to as a“quiet boy” in his senior yearbook, Gregory kept a regular schedule of social engagements. Every morning, he could be found with the John Deere Coffee Club, speculating over the week’s weather and providing commentary on the comings and goings of Stuttgart and Arkansas County. In the evenings, the Supper Club waswell known for their support of the town’s restaurant owners and employees. They soon became famous for partaking of the last suppers of several Stuttgart establishments, like The Mallard Restaurant, The Pam Pam Supper Club, the Little Chef, Cajun Bistro, and Pat’s Place.
Gregory loved his work, his community, and his friends, but nothing took the place of his family. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Elizabeth Hatfield; his son-in-law, JesseCastete; and his daughter-in-law, Mary Nina Fischer. He is survived by his wife of 61½ years, Syble Wilson Fischer; daughter, Ralynn Fischer Castete, of Sulphur, Louisiana; son, Greg Fischer, of Stuttgart; grandchildren, Stephanie (Sam) Prislovsky, Derek Fischer, Joseph (Melissa)Parker, and Nathan (Jordan Collier, fiance) Parker; great-grandchildren, HenlieFischer, Boone and Lane Prislovsky, Emerson Parker, and Lily and Jay Griffin;siblings, Genevieve (Al) Bednar, Virginia (Joe) Lisko, and David (Sherry)Fischer; and numerous nephews, nieces, and cousins.
Although his words were few, they were meaningful. His understated presence was a welcome addition to any room. His guidance and advice were sought out and appreciated by his loved ones, and his steady hand calmed many dinner table discussions. His imprint will remain on his farm ground and in our hearts for generations.
Viewing was held Thursday, May 28 at Turpin Funeral Home. Due to public health concerns, a private rosary service and funeral Mass was held May 29, at Holy Rosary Church. Graveside services were held May 29, at Holy Rosary Cemetery. Services were celebrated by Father Andrew Hart.
Memorials may be made to Holy Rosary Church.
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