Obituary of Gerald John Fischer

Gerald “Jerry” Fischer, accomplished businessman, sports enthusiast, friend to all, and above all, a man devoted to God and family, passed away peacefully on March 17th, 2024. A born salesman by nature, Jerry possessed a quick wit, a comedic, disarming personality, and instinctively crafted his message to win over people from all backgrounds. He smiled easily, engaged anyone in conversation, and made connections with strangers look easy.

Jerry met Lynda Reinhart in 1967, and they married in 1969. They were married for 54 years, and shared a strong bond…and many strong values. They worked hard to build a wonderful home and life together that reflected those values, and went on to raise 3 sons. The boys followed in their footsteps, thanks in large part to the countless hours he spent helping them gain skills and confidence. He and Lynda instilled a winning attitude and passed on their competitive nature. They seemingly never missed a game! That devotion was just as strong with the next generation. Jerry and Lynda were blessed with 7 grandchildren and formed an incredibly close connection with each of them since the day they were born.

Jerry was born on December 2nd, 1943, the 5th of 8 children. In this busy household, he learned the value of hard work and the importance of family, not to mention friendships that would last a lifetime. He enjoyed a close relationship with each of his siblings, and a deep respect for his parents. Through his own classmates and those of his brothers and sisters, he seemed to know the entire community of southwest Minneapolis, and he spoke fondly of them all. Reunions both formal and casual were some of his favorite times as the years went on.

As he grew up, his favorite pastimes were baseball, basketball, and hockey. His experiences in these sports played a big role in his life, and those memories always remained important to him. Jerry attended De La Salle High School in Minneapolis for 3 years, and then graduated from Southwest High School, where he and his family are members of the school’s Athletic Hall of Fame. He was always fond of saying he graduated from Southwest in only 1 year, while it took everyone else 4 years! Jerry went on to attend the University of Minnesota, and ultimately graduated from Mankato State University with a degree in Political Science.

As a young man, he developed a love for golf, perhaps his greatest recreational passion. He could often be found practicing in the backyard or at the local course. He became quite accomplished, finishing 2nd at the Wisconsin State Left-Handed Open. He once scored a double eagle on a par 5, and also shot his age on 2 occasions later in life.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife Lynda, sons Scott (Vivian), Jeff, and Doug (Christine), grandchildren Michael, Alyssa, Cal, Andrew, Daniel, Cate, and Artessa, siblings Julianne, Carolyn, Al “Butch”, Richard, Phil, Mary Ellen, and Joe, along with dozens of nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents Albert and Ann. He truly leaves behind a legacy that will continue to shine brightly in his honor!

CELEBRATION OF LIFE FOR JERRY FISCHER

Date: May 10th

Location: St. Joe The Worker Catholic Church, 7180 Hemlock Lane, Maple Grove, MN 55369

Visitation: 10:00 

Mass: 11:00

Reception Immediately Following Mass

Jerry will be missed by all who knew him, and forever remembered as a strong, proud, and loving husband, father, grandfather, son, uncle, and friend, who accomplished much in life and lived it to its fullest!

In lieu of flowers, donations are appreciated to the Tunnels to Towers Foundation, supporting American heroes by providing mortgage free homes to Gold Star and fallen first responder families with young children. Donate here: https://t2t.org/donate/