Gary Frank Fisher

In Loving Memory of Gary Frank Fisher, a well known business man in Casper Wyoming for over 50 years.

Gary Frank Fisher, born on July 31, 1939, left this earthly realm on February 1, 2024, surrounded by the love of his family. He was the second of three children born to Raymond Rudolph Fisher and Hazel Marie Grant, alongside his brother, Ronnie Ramon, and sister, Golden Lee.

Gary devoted 64 beautiful years of his life to his beloved wife, Sharon Jones Fisher, in their home in Casper, Wyoming. Together, they built a family that was the cornerstone of Gary's existence. He is survived by his daughters, Cindy Lynne Whitlock (Cliff, husband) of Casper, Wyoming, and Deanna Rae Moultrie (Dave, husband) of West Bountiful, Utah. Gil Waddell, who became a cherished member of Gary and Sharon's family at the age of 15, held a special place in Gary's heart.  With Gil later came Carla (wife), 2 sons and 1 grandson.  Jeff Thielbar was also a special friend who was like family.

The legacy of Gary's love and guidance extends to his seven grandchildren: Alicia, Amanda, Angela, Brooke, Ryan, Whitney, and Jordan. He leaves behind twenty great-grandchildren, and he brought many others into his life who call him “Papa.”   A testament to the enduring impact of his family values.

Gary's life was a masterpiece of dedication to his family and his faith. A devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Gary honored his church responsibilities and served a three year mission at Martin's Cove, in several Bishoprics, and as a High Counselor.  He was also in Scouting many different times, and loved all those scouts.

A self-taught carpenter, Gary's work was not only seen in the homes he built but also in the lives he touched. As a successful businessman in the community, he shared his knowledge generously, teaching many young people his trade and helping them become successful.

Gary started his cabinet making business in about 1963 in a one-stall garage behind Lee Lorimer's State Farm Insurance Office on CY Avenue in Casper, Wyoming. He later purchased land in upper Dempsey acres and moved a house from Casper onto the Dempsey property, which became his shop. He outgrew that building and built the cinder block building he used until his passing. He built cabinets, houses and furniture in Casper and surrounding areas. He employed many young men who were working to save for their missions. Many family members worked for him when they needed a little boost in their income. He seemed to always find a job for anyone who was down on their luck. At one time he had a young man working for him who was deaf. They communicated very well. Gary made up his own sign language and they did well together. 

His skill as a master cabinet maker and home builder adorned Casper with many examples of his craftsmanship.

In high school Gary was an avid sports enthusiast. He played football in Byron High School on a team that never lost a game for the 4 years Gary participated under the excellent coaching of Louis Maiben. He was so strong and threw the shot put very well. He played basketball as well. 

Gary was an excellent saxophone player. He won many awards for his playing skills. He played the saxophone in the Carroll Whalen Orchestra for dances, etc. at many different venues around the Big Horn Basin. Gary delivered newspapers for most of his school years in Bryon. He saved his money and was able to purchase a 3 wheeled scooter which made his route faster and easier. He didn't like to collect the money each month so he hired his sister to do that. He unknowingly was becoming a businessman already. 

He used his earnings to buy himself guns for hunting. He loved duck, deer, pheasant, rabbit, and elk hunting. Elk hunting became his most favorite. He always had a dog he trained to retrieve foul and even elk. Gary shot an elk at the top of a snowy mountain near Dubois, Wyoming. The elk didn't die immediately so Gary sent his dog Redder up the mountain to herd the elk down closer so he wouldn't have to drag it so far. Redder obediently did as commanded. 

Gary's love for the outdoors was as vast as the Wyoming sky. He spent countless days hunting, fishing, and camping, where he found solace and joy in nature. 

His dedication to community service extended to his work on numerous church buildings, including the Seventh and Missouri church building where, in a moment of need, he preemptively covered graffiti before the news crew could tell the story.

On February 1, 2024, Gary Frank Fisher peacefully passed away at home, surrounded by the warmth of his family. His departure follows a courageous two-year battle with pancreatic cancer, four back surgeries, and the challenges posed by COVID. Gary leaves a lasting legacy of love, craftsmanship, and devotion to family and community. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of sharing in his remarkable journey.

A viewing will be held on February 7, 2024, from 2:30pm to 3:30pm at the Wolfcreek Chapel, 3931 W 45^th Street, Casper, WY.   

 The funeral will be held after the viewing at 4:00pm at the same location.

Gary will be laid to rest in the Penrose Cemetery near his hometown of Byron, Wyoming, February 8, 2024.