John Richard Fisher

FISHER, John Richard July 15, 1947 - March 14, 2017 John will be missed by all and forgotten by none. Loved forever and always by the love of his life, Sharon, their children, Jesse and Madeliene, and grandchildren, Ella, Tajo, Lukas, Talin and Narayan. John inspired his children and grandchildren to love music, give free reign to their curiosity, cultivate their creativity, and never miss an opportunity to do good in the world. John is widely regarded as the father of the local blues scene and as a music hero by many. John's musical journey began in the early 60's. As a teen, John started several bands and many early bandmates became lifelong friends. Over the course of nearly 60 years, John provided mentoring and musical education to all who passed through his bands or participated in blues jams he and Sharon coordinated for more than 13 years. For the last 20 years John and Sharon played in Elmore's Bar and Grill blues band. John was well known by his stage name "Johnny Shuffles". He wore a series of trademark suits, many of which he donated to the Costume Loft at The Langham Court Theatre. John lived and was known for his commitment to the blues. He supported fellow musicians by showing up at their gigs. He helped bring Victoria's musical community together, notably involved in helping create the Victoria Blues Society; then serving on its Board and acting as Treasurer for the past ten years. The VBS has honoured John by establishing the John Fisher Memorial Legacy. This will fulfill John's dream of providing young musicians with support and mentoring in the blues. John was born in New Westminster, B C, but lived most of his life in Victoria, where he and Sharon raised their children. Both John and Sharon worked at the Glendale Lodge residence for the severely disabled. They co-founded Crossroads Human Services, a community-based life-skills centre for the most vulnerable people in our society. The compassionate, supportive environment they created and fostered at Crossroads enriched the lives of all participants. John shared his love of art and culture, music and the outdoors with his whole family, and his extensive circle of friends who were welcome in his audience, sharing his stage, or sitting around his campfire. During John's illness, he received incredible support from Dr. Lundy and the amazing staff on North 8 at the Royal Jubilee Hospital, as well as the dietary technicians who went out of their way to serve John his favourite meals. The compassion, expertise, efforts and dedication of all who contributed to John's care is acknowledged and appreciated. At John's request there will be no formal service. Friends are encouraged to get together and share their John Fisher stories, over coffee or a glass of wine. Stories about John's life can also be shared through the website of First Memorial Services of Victoria and here in the Guest Book. A musical tribute to John can be found at https://rcmpsite.com/. In lieu of flowers, family and friends may wish to make a donation to support The Dandelion Society's commitment to helping people on the street, or to the Victoria Blues Society's John Fisher Memorial Legacy. A celebration of John's life will be announced at a later date at www.hermannsjazz.com and thevictoriabluessociety.ca