Lt. William Fisher, USA

Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa, Thursday, June 4, l903

"WILLIAM FISHER died of senile gangrene, at Van Wert, Iowa, on the 26th day of May, l903, in the 78th year of his age.

The subject of this sketch was born in Bedford County, Pennsylvania, May l6, l826; was joined in marriage with SUSANNA RUSSELL, December 23, l848; to this union twelve children were born, of whom only five survive, towit: MRS. MARY NEGLEY, MRS. CATHERINE HUFF, MRS. LOTTIE SODERS, WILLIAM L. and ISAAC K. Brother FISHER served his country faithfully in Company H, 99th Pennsylvania Regiment until discharged.

He came to Iowa and settled near Decatur City more than thirty years ago. After the death of his wife, which occurred 23 years ago, he went to Pennsylvania and on the l9th of January, married SUSANNA STONE, who survives him. Brother FISHER was converted and joined the M.E. Church in early life and continued faithful until death. The writer became acquainted with him twenty odd years ago and ever found him a true, faithful, loving friend -- was often at his bedside during his last illness, which lasted more than eleven weeks, and although he suffered intensly, always found him patient, trusting in Jesus, and at different times he expressed an earnest desire to depart and be with the Lord; he talked freely of approaching death and of his prospect of Heaven; death had no terror to him; he died in peace.

His remains were conveyed to Decatur City for burial. The G.A.R. Post of Van Wert held brief memorial services, then acted as pall bearers to convey the remains to the hearse; the Post at Decatur City were in waiting, received the remains and after the funeral, conducted by Rev. R.J. Tenant at the M.E. Church, kindly completed the burial services at the grave, where his remains were laid to rest beside those of his first wife, in the beautiful cemetery at Decatur City, all performed according to the beautiful ritual of the G.A.R., of which he was an honored member.

In the death of Brother FISHER, the writer has lost a personal friend. --S. SAMSON."

Civil War Veteran, GAR Company H, 99th Pennsylvania Regiment.