James Fisher

Panama City Beach, FL  Age 65, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Friday, July 28th.

Jim is survived by his wife of 43 years, Pauline (Vanyo) Fisher; son, Stanley Fisher, Kelly (Yester) Fisher; his daughter, Stacy Fisher; his sisters, Carol (Duane) Memken and Mary Jo (Robert) Muske; 4 grandchildren; and many more relatives, friends and veterans of the USAF.

Born and raised in St. Paul, MN, the son of Benjamin and Hattie Fisher, Jim attended Nativity grade school, Cretin High School, graduated from the University of Minnesota ROTC Program and later received his Masters Degree from Gonzaga University.  He married Pauline and they started their journey as he entered the USAF as a 2nd Lieutenant.

Serving for our country as a pilot, Jim fearlessly flew broken airplanes to get fixed as part of Desert Storm.  Jim retired with over 20 years and earning an “outstanding” as a Lt. Colonel Squadron Commander at Mountain Home, Idaho.  A selfless and inspirational leader, he was known to crack a joke at almost everything and his infectious laugh made everyone around him smile.

Jim and Pauline relocated to the “emerald coast” of Panama City Beach, FL 3 years ago where they enjoyed year-round beach days, BBQ’s, and Jim uncovered his artistic talent for creating sculptures with locally sourced driftwood and sheet metal.  He started a business, VetArt, and sold his pieces at a local store.  Neighbors knew him as “the guy in the garage listening to good music working on his projects”.

Mass of Christian Burial 11am, Thursday, August 10, 2017 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, 393 Superior St. Paul. Visitation 5-8pm Wednesday, Kessler Maguire Funeral Home 640 W 7th Street, St Paul, MN.  Interment following Mass at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.