SOUTH BEND TRIBUNE – December 18, 2001

Thomas E. Fischer

Aug. 2, 1950 - Dec. 14, 2001

Thomas Edward Fischer passed away at the age of 51 on Friday, Dec. 14, 2001, in Tijeras, New Mexico, from a brain tumor. He was first diagnosed in 1994 and had a few years in remission to enjoy his life.

Tom is survived by his wife of 30 years, Marie Fischer in Tijeras, and two children, Ben Fischer of Phoenix, Ariz., and Michelle Fischer of Tijeras.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Angela, in 1974; his parents, Edward and Mary Fischer; and his brother, John Fischer.

Tom was affectionately known as Tyrone Pelon by many close to him. His gentle smile and positive strength will be missed dearly.

Tom was born Aug. 2, 1950, in South Bend, Ind. He attended Indiana State University and moved to New Mexico in 1970. He loved the blue sky and mountains of New Mexico, and his sweetheart, Marie. Tom was proud to have attained conscientious objector status in 1970 towards the draft for the Vietnam War. He was a peaceful man who always wished for world peace. His family believes he is already assisting in the effort toward world peace from the spiritual realm. Tom primarily worked as a paralegal throughout his life, but his passion was his store in Tijeras, "The Best of New Mexico," which sold New Mexico food and gifts. In February of this year, Tom attained the First Degree in the Relki method of Natural Healing. Tom's favorite motto was "Keep on Dancin."

In lieu of flowers, the family request that donations be made to the National Brain Tumor Foundation, 785 Market Street, Suite 1600, San Francisco, CA 94103.

A memorial service was held at 10 a.m. on Sunday, Dec. 16, in the Pinon Canyon Center (YWCA), 11776 South Highway 337, Tijeras, N.M.

The Hickey Funeral Home, South Bend, is in charge of arrangements.