Dwayne Charles "D.D." Fischer

With heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life beautifully lived, we announce the passing of Dwayne Charles "D.D." Fischer on May 2, 2025, at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis MO, who departed this world surrounded by family after a life devoted to family, faith, service, and community.

Born on April 13, 1949, in Quincy, Illinois, D.D. was the beloved son of Irwin "Obie" Fischer and Mildred "Tootie" Warmker Fischer. From an early age, D.D.'s deep-rooted values of kindness, integrity, and leadership were evident to all who knew him. He was a proud product of St. Francis Grade School, Christian Brothers High School (QND), and Quincy College (now Quincy University). Ever dedicated to learning, D.D. earned his MBA from Western Illinois University, exemplifying his lifelong commitment to personal and professional growth.

On a beautiful day at St. Francis Church in Quincy, D.D. married the love of his life, Janie Ehrhardt on her 21st Birthday August 22, 1970. For 54 years, theirs was a partnership marked by unwavering devotion, deep friendship, and shared joy. Together, they built a life of meaning and love, rich with laughter, shared adventures, and quiet moments of grace. Janie survives, as does the love story they wrote together over five decades.

D.D. was a devoted father to Ryan Fischer and his partner Darren Taylor of Kansas City, MO, and to Michael Fischer and his wife Jessica (Simmons) Fischer of Chicago, IL. His sons were his pride and joy, and he offered them his unshakable support, gentle wisdom, and boundless love. He is also survived by his brother Dennis (Vicky) Fischer of Port Orange, FL; sisters Diane (Don) Bruemmer of Davenport, IA, and Debbie (Jim) Fruland of Morris, IL; and his brother-in-law Michael Simmons of Golden, CO. His extended family-nieces, nephews, and cousins-were a cherished part of his life and legacy.

D.D. was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Daniel "Boonie" Fischer; sisters-in-laws Sharon Dittmer and Donna Simmons; and his dear mother and father-in-law, Alfred and Janet Ehrhardt.

D.D. was a man of many passions: a lifelong sportsman with a deep love for duck, goose, and quail hunting, especially alongside his treasured German shorthaired pointers. He found joy riding his 4x4 mule with Janie around their farm, soaking in the peace of nature. He was an aficionado of blues music, and some of his happiest moments were spent at outdoor concerts, at beach vacations with his family, and enjoying meals and camaraderie with friends.

Professionally, D.D. began his career in the retail clothing industry, but found his true calling in education and service. In 1973, he began a remarkable relationship with Chaddock, a place that would become his professional home and spiritual mission. From teacher to Vice President of Finance in 1985, to founder of Fischer Financial Consulting and ultimately President of Chaddock's Board of Directors, D.D. led with heart, vision, and a commitment that never wavered. He specialized in supporting private special education schools throughout Illinois and was an inspiring advocate for children and families statewide. His leadership was defined by humility and strength-whether guiding a board meeting, mentoring colleagues, or quietly encouraging those around him, D.D.'s influence was deep and lasting.

Those who worked with him knew D.D. as a man of faith, wisdom, and compassion. His legacy at Chaddock and throughout the educational community is one of transformative leadership and selfless service. He did not seek praise or spotlight-his reward was always in the growth and well-being of others.

In 2017, D.D. received the gift of renewed life through a double lung transplant at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis. He remained profoundly grateful for the care and love extended to him by the transplant team and staff, whose dedication allowed him to enjoy several more cherished years with his loved ones. D.D. always used to say "The doctors are the fixers and the nurses are the healers along with the entire Barnes staff." His appreciation for them was as deep as his faith, and he held them close in his heart.

D.D.'s legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched-with compassion, humor, intelligence, and grace. His faith, family, and friends were his guiding lights, and his spirit will forever be felt in every life he helped shape and every cause he championed.

Visitation will be held on Friday, May 9th, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at St. Francis Church in Quincy, IL.

A Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, May 10th at 10 AM at St. Francis Church in Quincy, IL.

Live Streaming: The service for D.D. Fischer will begin at 10am Central Time on Saturday May 10th, 2025, at this link: https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/a25058679299592

In honor of D.D.'s enduring legacy, memorial contributions may be made to one of his most beloved causes:

The Fischer Family Lung Transplant Research Fund

Checks payable to: The Foundation for Barnes-Jewish Hospital

1001 Highlands Plaza Drive West, Suite 140, St. Louis, MO 63110

Or online at: foundationbarnesjewish.org

Chaddock

205 S. 24th Street, Quincy, IL 62301

St. Francis Solanus Church

1721 College Avenue, Quincy, IL 62301

Let us carry forward the work and spirit of D.D. Fischer by living lives of purpose, faith, and compassion-just as he did every single day. May his memory be eternal, and may his light continue to shine through all of us.

Hansen-Spear Funeral Directors are in charge of arrangements.