Vernon Jacob Fisher

Vernon Jacob Fisher, 88, of Farmington, Minn., died Nov. 13, 2009, at his home in Farmington Community Assisted Living.

Born August 16, 1921, in Sissonville, W.V. to Eustace and Elma (Price) Fisher, he married Verna "Jo" Berry on Jan. 26, 1947, in Morgantown, W.V.

Vernon Fisher graduated from West Virginia University in 1943 with a Bachelor of Science degree in agriculture. He was part of ROTC and OCS, and served in World War II in the Philippine Islands and Korea. He remained part of the National Guard Officers Reserve Corps, retiring in 1951, at the rank of captain.

After receiving a Doctor of Philosophy from Michigan State University in 1949, his career included both teaching and research. He spent 20 years on the faculty of the University of Delaware as a professor of plant science. Most recently, he was Director of Research for the L.D. Maffei Seed Company in Newman, Calif.

After retirement, he volunteered as the Gustine, Calif., city arborist, where he was fondly called the "Tree Doctor". He was active in Shepherdstown and California Masonic Lodges as well as Kiwanis International in Delaware.

Vernon donated his body to the Bequest Program of the University of Minnesota Medical School, with the hope that in death, he might still contribute to science and research which so defined his life.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by daughters, Carol Mathieson of Canton, Mo., and Cathy (Gary) Johnson of Farmington; and son, Barry (Fran) Fisher of Aurora, Colo.; grandchildren, Trevor and Ryan Johnson, Adam and Megan Fisher, and Kristina (Chris) Mathieson Darnell; as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; 13 siblings; and his son-in-law and grandson, Robert and Andrew Mathieson.

A memorial service will be held at Farmington Lutheran Church on Monday, Nov. 23. Gathering of friends and family will begin at 6 p.m., with a service to follow at 7 p.m. A reception will follow. Rev. Phil Walen will officiate. The church is located at 20600 Akin Road, Farmington. Memorials are preferred.

Tags: obituaries