Donald Robert Fischer

Born in Brooklyn, New York, Don was the son of the late William and Rose Fischer. He was preceded in death by his beloved sister Joyce and his brother-in-law Jerry.

Brooklyn always remained close to Don’s heart. It was there he graduated from Long Island University, cheered for his Yankees, Giants, and especially his New York Rangers, and most importantly, met the love of his life, Thelma. For 58 wonderful years, he and his wife built a family filled with love, laughter, and treasured memories.

Don’s professional path took him from Kings County Hospital to Penn State Hershey Medical Center and eventually to the University of Florida’s Shands Hospital, where he served as Laboratory Manager of Anatomic Pathology. But it was in Florida where Don found a second calling, one that suited his vibrant personality perfectly—selling cars at Brasington Cadillac. With his magnetic energy, warm smile, and gift for conversation, Don could connect with anyone. People were naturally drawn to him, and he cherished those connections.

Above all, Don’s greatest pride and joy was his family. He adored his wife Thelma, sons Brad (Maria) and William (Bridget), and poured his heart into fatherhood—whether it was coaching baseball on the Conewago fields, cheering at games, or taking long trips together just to watch the Giants play. Don enjoyed time with his siblings-in-law, nieces and nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, great-grandnieces and great-grandnephews. His role as a grandfather brought him even more joy than he imagined possible. Nothing made him happier than time spent with his four grandchildren—Bruni, Emily, Ben, and Rachel—who were truly the light of his life.

Don lived with an unstoppable spirit, a deep love for people, and an unwavering devotion to his family. His presence filled every room with warmth and energy, and his legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the family he so dearly loved.

In lieu of flowers a donation can be made in his name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Planned Parenthood.