John Henry “Jack” Fisher, a beloved and enduring figure in the communities of River Forest and Oak Park, passed away peacefully in Oak Park on July 28, 2025, at the age of 85. His passing followed a decade-long battle with Alzheimer’s, yet his spirit of dedication and warmth continued to resonate with those who knew him. Fisher’s life was a testament to commitment, both to his family and to the various communities he enriched.
Born on January 13, 1940, in Beverly, Chicago, to the late Hazel (Sprague) and John Henry Fisher, Jack’s early years laid the foundation for a life marked by hard work and genuine affection. He was the epitome of a devoted family man, a trait he carried throughout his 64-year marriage to his beloved wife, Carol. Their bond was a cornerstone of his existence, providing a stable and loving environment for their children and later, their grandsons.
Fisher’s professional journey was anchored at the Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT), where he dedicated an remarkable 50 years of his life. His tenure at this bustling financial institution was not just a job but a significant part of his identity. He was known for his steady presence and commitment, embodying the ethos of hard work to support his family, a value he instilled through his actions.
His retirement from CBOT was as unique and heartfelt as his career. Without much fanfare, Jack intended a quiet departure, but his colleagues had other plans. On his final trading day, the ringing of the bell was accompanied by the surprise announcement of his retirement, followed by a shower of trading cards and resounding applause across the trading floor. This spontaneous outpouring of gratitude underscored the profound impact he had on his peers.
Beyond his professional life, Jack harbored a deep passion for reading, a pursuit that transcended personal enjoyment. In his retirement, he channeled this love into community service, becoming a dedicated tutor for children at Irving Elementary School in Oak Park through the Working on Reading in the Morning (WORM) club. Here, he transformed into “Mr. Jack,” patiently guiding young minds and fostering a love for literacy.
Whether as “Jack” to his friends and colleagues, “Mr. Jack” to his students, or “honey, dad, and grandpa” to his cherished family, he was consistently a mentor and an exemplar. His unwavering support for his children’s sports, scout, and music events, and later, the daily school pickups and event attendance for his grandsons, showcased his boundless love and involvement. His dogs, too, were recipients of his affection, enjoying walks and car rides by his side.
John Henry Fisher’s life was a vibrant tapestry of family devotion, professional integrity, and selfless community engagement. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, mentorship, and unwavering support that will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His journey was a testament to a life well-lived, marked by profound connections and a lasting positive influence.
A visitation to honor Jack will be held on Friday, August 1, 2025, at Ascension Catholic Church, located at 808 S East Ave, Oak Park, IL 60304, commencing at 9:30 a.m. This will be followed by a funeral service at 10:30 a.m., with a procession to Queen of Heaven Catholic Cemetery Chapel at 1400 S Wolf Rd, Hillside, IL 60162. The family kindly requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Salvation Army. Further information and condolences can be found by visiting Peterson Bassi Chapels or by calling (773) 637-4441.
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