Death Benefit #385 – William Fisher

William L. Fisher, 85, of Wapakoneta, said “see you around” on September 29, 2026. He was born on October 6, 1940 to William F. & Lucille (Wilker) Fisher, who preceded him in death. On August 16, 1969, he married Elaine F. Klopfenstein, who survives. He is also survived by their son, Robert L. Fisher, of Wapakoneta.

A graduate of St. Marys Memorial High School, Bill went on to serve in the United States Navy for five years. He became a shipfitter, working on ship hulls and nuclear reactors while stationed on three ships. One ship was the USS Long Beach (CGN9), which was part of the first nuclear task force to sail around the world. Bill was honorably discharged October 3, 1964 as a Petty Officer First Class.

Bill then became a member of the Local 776 Plumbers & Pipefitters, Lima and just received his 60 year membership pin. He worked as a pipefitter for Tilton Corp, Lima and BG Danis, Dayton, supervising projects throughout Ohio and along the eastern seaboard. Later in his career he worked as an independent contractor, supervising projects in various refineries and factories across the United States.

When not traveling for work, Bill became a Special Deputy with the Allen County Sheriff’s Office, serving 33 years with their Mounted Posse. Idolizing the American Cowboy, Bill lived in the cowboy way and was easily spotted by the black cowboy hat he always wore. He took pride in learning and working with horses, watching others train and show them.

A lifelong learner, Bill was well read in early American and Ohio History, from the Revolutionary to the Civil War. He also spent hours studying the American West, focusing on Fur Trappers and Indian Tribes. Bill was an avid traveler Out West, spending as much time as he could in Montana, following the Lewis & Clarks trails.

A keen interest in firearms and shooting provided Bill with the hobby of learning and developing rifle and pistol loading. He loved the challenge for finding the perfect load for each specific firearm. The rewards of that hobby were evident in his hunting skill… from big game in Colorado to the varmint in Montana and the pheasants in South Dakota and Kansas. Bill was a life member of the Tri-State Gun Collectors and a member of the Sabres Shooting Association.

Later in life, Bill found a hidden talent of pencil and line drawing. Through the years he drew many people, animals, buildings and landscapes, challenging himself to consistently increase his skill. In addition to the homes of family and friends, Bill’s art can be found in local churches and museums in Montana.

Bill lived a helluva life, always there with a helping hand and ready to get the job done the best he could. Many people were touched by one facet or another of Bill’s life, he will be truly missed.

Never one to say goodbye, join us to celebrate Bill’s life with a Mass of Christian Burial, beginning at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, October 7, 2026 at St. John Catholic Church, Freyburg. Father Ethan Hoying will officiate and burial of Bill’s cremated remains will follow in St. John Catholic Cemetery, Freyburg. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be directed to the Holy Face of Jesus Parish, St. John Catholic Church or Heartland Hospice.

See you around Bill!