William Fischer

William Fischer, 90, was welcomed home Tuesday, April 17, after a life full of love and enough personal and professional achievements to fill this page. He was most proud of his heritage, having been born in Karlsruhe, Germany to Alfred and Ida Fischer on March 27, 1928. Though he left Germany behind to pursue his dreams in America, the people and culture of his homeland remained dear to his heart throughout his life. Having lost his father at a young age, Bill learned early on the importance and value of hard work, an attribute that stayed with him his entire life. During his childhood, he and his brother collected spare bicycle parts, and with the help of their mother, refurbished and sold them. This eventually led the brothers to building the family company, Fischer Bicycles, into one of the largest bike manufacturers in Europe. Bill studied business at the famous Heidelberg University in Baden-Wrttemberg, Germany, where he graduated with high honors in 1949. From there he traveled to the United States to work as an apprentice to further his knowledge in the family bicycle business. While in America he was drafted by the Army to fight in the Korean War; where he was assigned to the 15th Quarter Master Company in the First Cavalry Division. Bill was very proud of his military service and often spoke fondly of his time serving. From there he went to work for Boehringer-Mannheim Pharmaceuticals where he helped set up the company in Iran. While working for Boehringer, Bill traveled the world, working alongside some of the top minds in Europe and the US. Bill met the love of his life, the former Gertrude (Trudy) Bausewein in Germany. It was love at first sight and the two were married on October 24, 1972 and left to make their home in the United States shortly after. Together, they shared 46 happy years of marriage. After arriving in the US, Bill developed and patented several health products. In 1983 he founded Fischer Publishing in Canfield. Bill authored dozens of natural health books, including several best sellers. During this time he and Trudy traveled the world together; meeting and working with some of the top natural health doctors in the world. Using what he had learned, Bill went on to create a successful direct marketing firm specializing in nutraceuticals. When he wasnt researching vitamins & minerals, inventing products or writing books; Bill could be found enjoying the company of his beloved beagle named Charlie. Bill, who loved people, his family and life, will be deeply missed by all those who knew him. He is survived by his wife, Trudy; his sister-in-law and nephews in Germany, and a host of close friends who were more like family. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Alfred Fischer. The family wishes to thank Brookdale Austintown for their compassion and excellent care during Bills stay and brief illness, as well as Hospice of the Valley. Arrangements are being handled by Lane Funeral Home. Per Bills wishes, there are no services planned. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to the Alzheimers Association or Hospice of the Valley.