Ronald Hugh Fischer, 64, 41- year resident of Oak Harbor, died May 8, 2003, at University of Washington Medical Center following a brief illness.

Mr. Fischer was born in Merced, Calif., Jan. 16, 1939, to Clarence Fischer and Lucille (Prince) Fischer. He was raised in San Bernardino and Barstow, Calif. In 1956 he graduated from high school in Colton, Calif. Following his graduation, he worked briefly, and then entered the US Navy, serving from 1962 to 1967. While in the Navy, he was stationed at North Island Naval Air Station, San Diego, and Whidbey Island Naval Air Station.

On May 5, 1963, he married Janice Freshour in Seattle. They lived in Oak Harbor for their entire marriage. Ron managed the Bargain Center Furniture Store for one year before purchasing the store from the original owner in 1963. Ron referred to this as “the last deal in America done on a hand shake.” He loved his work and enjoyed gardening.

Ron is survived by his wife Janice at home; sons David Fischer and wife Alison of Oak Harbor and Robb Fischer and wife Brooke of San Diego; also, foster son Gerry Oliver of Oak Harbor; one granddaughter, Sydney Fischer; his father, Clarence Fischer of Bishop, Calif.; one sister, Cherie Myers and husband Bob of Barstow, Calif. and brother Bob Fischer and wife Cheryl of LaVerne, Calif.; two nieces, Monica Crockett and husband Mark of Chino Hills, Calif. and Erin Fischer of LaVerne, Calif.; one nephew, Derrick Myers and wife Chrystal of San Bernardino, Calif. Ron was preceded in death by his mother, Lucille Fischer, in 1968; his uncle Leonard Broderick in 1973 and his aunt Marjorie Broderick in 1977.

A graveside gathering will take place Thursday, May 15, at 1 p.m., at Maple Leaf Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to American Cancer Society, c/o Jo Balda, Treasurer, P.O. Box 345, Oak Harbor, WA 98277, or to W.A.I.F., P.O. Box 1108, Coupeville, WA 98239. Arrangements and cremation under direction of Burley Funeral Chapel.