Emile Joseph Fichter Jr.

Emile Joseph Fichter, Jr., of New Orleans, LA, age 93, died peacefully in his home on December 13, 2017. He was a Navy veteran of World War II and a proud graduate of Tulane University. Emile was preceded in death by his parents, Emile Joseph Fichter, Sr., and Elmire Thomassie Fichter. He also was preceded in death by his first wife Joyce Lyons Fichter and his second wife Patricia Eiffert Fichter, as well as his son-in-law Richard Curry Hale; his sisters-in-law June Ann Lyons and Lynn Eiffert Odenwald; and his brother-in-law Paul Odenwald. Emile is survived by his beloved children Rebecca Fichter Hale, Ph.D., Nancy Elizabeth Fichter, and Mark Lyons Fichter (Joni); and his grandchildren Evan Jennings Fichter and Kylie Cummings Fichter. He also is survived by his sisters-in-law Joanne Lyons Kirkpatrick and Gloria Eiffert Vandenweghe (Roland); and his brother-in-law Ray Eiffert (Bonnie), as well as many nieces and nephews. Emile was a generous, kind person who was loved by many people. He was a wonderful storyteller who loved to joke with people. He loved the city of New Orleans and loved to act as a tour guide for out-of-town family and friends. He loved attending plays at Tulane Summer Lyric Theatre and the Saenger Theatre. He was a wonderful dancer and loved music, particularly music from the Big Band Era. He also loved attending the National World War II Museum. Most especially, Emile enjoyed attending football games at his beloved Tulane University. Emile was a wonderful father, husband, grandfather, brother-in-law, uncle, and friend. His sense of humor will be missed by his family and friends. The family would like to give special thanks to his wonderful caregivers Julie Evans and Robert Smith. Family and friends are invited to attend the visitation on Monday, December 18, beginning at 9:00 a.m., followed by a funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. at St. Benilde Church, 1901 Division St., Metairie, LA 70001. Interment will be at Lake Lawn Cemetery following the funeral Mass. Arrangements by Tharp-Sontheimer-Tharp, 1600 N. Causeway Blvd. Condolences may be expressed online at www.tharpsontheimerfh.com. Information 504-835-2341. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Tulane University Athletics Fund or the National World War II Museum.