Obituary of Robert E. Fisher
OLMSTEDVILLE –
Robert E. Fisher passed away unexpectedly at Albany Medical Center on October 25, 2024 with beloved family at his side.
Born in Paterson NJ, Bob spent most of his adult life in Manhattan and the Adirondacks. Many will remember him for his charming personality and for his passion for teaching and discovery—in mountains, music, plants, books, people, and the cosmos.
A renaissance man with a range of talents and knowledge that far exceeded his formal education, at age 19 Bob joined the U.S. Army Band as a clarinetist, served for 3 years, then earned a Bachelor’s degree in clarinet performance at New England Conservatory, followed by a Master’s at Manhattan School of Music. After performing in the NY Metropolitan area for nearly two decades, in1985 he turned to science, resumed his education at CCNY and taught at-risk high school students in NYC for 23 years.
In 2006 Bob retired to the Olmstedville log cabin he shared with his wife and partner of 44 years, author Bibi Wein. His lifelong interest in astronomy and astrophotography soon became a full-time profession. He led public astronomy programs and participated in juried art shows throughout the North Country through the last day of his life. Birds of a Feather Studio/Gallery (Chestertown) and H’Art Studio & Gallery (North Creek) continue to feature his photographs.
Above all, however, Bob loved music and had a profound belief in its power to heal and inspire. He had recently turned his focus to performing jazz. His last clarinet performance, in September 2024, at The Owl of Twilight restaurant with the Ray Alexander Band, brought down the house.
Bob was predeceased by his parents Genevieve Soltis Fisher and Joseph Fisher. In addition to Ms. Wein he is survived by stepdaughter Elizabeth (Vaughn)Svendsen, sister Katherine (Vincent) Fisher DiRicco, brother-and-sister-in-law Gerald and Rosemary Wein, nephews Justin DiRicco, Stephen DiRicco, Toby Wein and David Wein, and numerous cousins and friends.
Memorial services to be announced. Cremation Arrangements have been entrusted to: Simple Choices, Inc., 218 2nd Avenue, Troy, NY 12180. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the Fisher Family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com
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