JOHN J. FISHER

John J. Fisher, 93, of Altoona, passed away Friday morning at Hillview Healthcare & Rehabilitation Center.

John was born in Saxton, the son of the late Chester and Dolly Ruth (Miller) Fisher. His wife, Ada Mae Bassler, preceded him in death on Jan. 22, 1998. He is also preceeded in death by his four sisters: Mildred, Dorothy, Mary, and Betty. 

Surviving is a daughter, Nancy L. Merklin of Ocala, Fla.; two sons: John Steven Fisher and wife, Michelle, of Altoona, and Joseph Scott Fisher and wife, Maureen, of Duncansville; four grandchildren: John (Kymberlee), Tristan, Chloe and Sara; and two great-grandchildren: Piper and Oliver. 

John retired as a crane operator from Conrail, with 40 years of service.

He served in the Navy during WWII as a Seaman 1st Class. 

John was a graduate of Morrison Cove High School. He was one of the best water skiers on Raystown Lake during 1960s, an avid ultra-light pilot and hang glider from the 1970s until the 1990s. He was a master woodworker, enjoyed checkers, and, most of all, sitting on the back porch watching nature with his family.

At John's request there will be no services.