John W. Fisher

F isher , John W. Muncie, IN. Long-time local civic leader and businessman since the 1940's, passed away Sunday, June 28, 2009. He was born July 15, 1915 in Walland, Tennessee, the son of A.J. Fisher and Rachel (Malott) Fisher. John married Janice Kelsey Ball on August 10, 1940. John was an honorary director and retired chairman; President and Chief Executive Officer of Ball Corporation and served as chairman emeritus of the Board of Directors. Mr. Fisher joined the company in 1941 as a trainee. Following nine years in various manufacturing assignments he was named Vice President of sales. He was elected a Corporate Vice President in 1963, and was named President and C.E.O. in 1970. Mr. Fisher retired as C.E.O. in 1981 and as Chairman of the Board in 1986. He served as a Director of Ball Corporation from 1943 to 1986 and continued as a member of the Executive Committee until 1992. Survivors include his wife of over 69 years, Janice (Ball) Fisher; their children, Joan F. Woods, (husband-Randy); Michael J. Fisher, (wife-Dawn); James A. Fisher, (wife-Elizabeth); Jeffrey E. Fisher, (wife-Nancy); Judith F. Oetinger, (husband-Tom); John W. Fisher III, (wife-Joanne) and Jerrold M. Fisher, (wife-Lisa); 19 grandchildren and 28 great grandchildren. A Memorial Service will be held 2:00 p.m., Thursday, July 16, 2009 at High Street United Methodist Church, 219 S. High Street, Muncie, IN with Rev. Jack Hartman; Rev. Dr. Ronald Naylor and Rev. Tom Rough officiating. The family will receive friends in the Parish Hall at the church, immediately following the service. The Meeks Mortuary and Crematory, Washington Street Chapel is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to charity of your choice. Send online condolences to the family at www.meeksmortuary.com.