Gary L. Fisher

Gary “Fred” Lee Fisher, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, peacefully passed away on Saturday, December 27, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Gary and his beloved wife Pat shared sixty-four wonderful years of marriage, having met at a root beer stand in La Crescent, MN. Together, they built a life grounded in love, hard work, and strong family ties. He was the proud father of four children: Stacy Skadson, Stephanie Fisher (Kyla), Matthew (Denise) Fisher, and Michael (Adri) Fisher. Gary was a treasured grandfather to Mariah (Chris) Carroll, Wyatt Skadson, Liam Fisher, Mikah Fisher, and Aiden Fisher, and a delighted great-grandfather to Wylder and Rivie Carroll. Gary found enormous joy in patiently sharing his hunting and fishing skills with his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frederick and Marjorie Fisher, his brother Larry Fisher, and his grandson Mick Skadson.

Gary was born in South Dakota he moved to Hokah, MN as a child. He was a member of the Zion Lutheran Church in Hokah, MN.

Gary dedicated his career to working as an engineer for Burlington Northern Railroad, traveling the lines from Chicago to Minneapolis. He took immense pride in his work and formed lifelong friendships there. He also proudly served in the United States Navy, an experience that deeply influenced his sense of duty and commitment throughout his life. Outside of work, Gary found peace and happiness in the outdoors. He loved hunting and fishing, cherishing the quiet moments in nature followed by family gatherings filled with stories of the day’s adventures. A friend to all wildlife, he was known for caring for the birds and squirrels, always ensuring the backyard feeders were full of premium nuts and seeds.

One of his greatest joys was the special bond he shared with his loyal labrador dogs over the years, enjoying hunting trips and daily walks in the wetlands along the banks of the Root River.

Gary is remembered for his love of family, his sense of humor, and his kind heart. He leaves behind a legacy of love and many treasured memories that will live on in all who knew him.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the Internal Medicine and Palliative Medicine teams at EH-Gundersen for their exceptional care, and to Dr. Balaji, Dr. Undeland, and Dr. Zach Morris for their skill and support over the years. A Celebration of Life is planned for a later date.

Fish on Fred

Our Family Chain

We little knew that morning that God would call your name. In life, we loved you dearly, and in death, we do the same. It broke our hearts to lose you, yet you did not go alone. A part of us went with you the day God called you home. You left us beautiful memories; your love is still our guide. Though we cannot see you, you’re always by our side.

Our family chain is broken, and nothing seems the same. As God calls us one by one, the chain will link again.