William F. Fisher, Jr, passed away at the age of 79, on January 18, surrounded by his loving family.

Bill was born in Bronx, N.Y., to Margaret and William Fisher, Sr.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Janet, and his three daughters and sons-in-law: Michele and Patrick Smith of Sandy Hook, Karen and Kevin Powell of Sandy Hook, and Stephanie and Chris Craddock of Chantilly, Va. Additionally, he leaves behind nine grandchildren: Colton, Kira, and Carlie Smith; Alexa and Addison Conway; Brandon, and Danielle Powell; and Kevin, Liam, and Emma Craddock.

He is also survived by his brother Jack Fisher, and many nieces, nephews, and friends. He was especially close with his nephew Donald Fisher of California, whom he talked to frequently to stay connected to family on the west coast.

He was predeceased by his brother Robert and his parents.

Bill spent the majority of his life living in New Jersey, a state that he loved. He would often refer to it as “the great state of Jersey.” For the past 15 years, he lived in Connecticut to be closer to his daughters and their families. He had a very active schedule and great friends while living in Oxford Greens.

Bill was an amazing father, husband, and grandfather. He worked hard to provide for his family, often working two jobs at a time, while coaching and being present for his children. He attended many sporting events, activities, and ceremonies for his grandchildren and was very proud of each of them.

He made a career in teaching and was a beloved eighth grade science and math teacher for 40 years. He owned a bike shop for seven years and served his community on the Board of Education for six years.

Bill connected with all people he came in contact with. He made people laugh and feel special, so everyone had a great fondness for him. He coined many nicknames that stuck for years and anyone who met him remembered him.

He considered himself a Renaissance man and had many interests, including music, which was always playing in the house, and all outdoor activities: hiking, cycling, and swimming; he also loved Scrabble, crossword puzzles, reading, and jigsaw puzzles.

He was known for his sense of humor and quick wit, which will be greatly missed!

Over the past 12 years Bill fought a tough fight with Parkinson’s disease. He never let the disease get the better of him and he continued to live his life to the fullest.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Michael J Fox Foundation: Our Goal: An Urgently Needed Cure | Parkinson’s disease (michaeljfox.org).

A private graveside service was held for the immediate family. A celebration of life will be held in the early summer, with a date to follow.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff at Griffin Hospital who took amazing care of him.

To leave an online condolence please visit munsonloveterefuneralhome.com.