Charles Franklin (Chuck) Fisher, 88, Lawrence, Kansas, passed away peacefully April 11, 2025. He was born on August 26, 1936, in Parsons, Kansas, to Mel and Betty Fisher.
Chuck spent most of his childhood in Lawrence and graduated from Lawrence High School in 1954, before attending the University of Kansas where he became a lifelong Jayhawk fan. He was a familiar face at The Round Corner Drug Store on 801 Massachusetts Street, the family business where he worked from 1941 to 1975. He later continued his career at the 1st National Bank until his retirement in 1996.
He served his country as a member of the Army Reserves, where he was honorably discharged in 1965. During his time in the Reserves, he met and married his wife, Erma Carstens on June 24th, 1960. In 1971, Chuck was elected to serve as a Lawrence City Commissioner, where he served for 2 years. He was an active member of the Plymouth Congregational Church, where he sang in the choir. He was also a member of the Luncheon Cosmopolitan Club, the Elks Lodge and the Lawrence All-British Car Club. Chuck enjoyed KU sports, restoring British cars, traveling with his family, and lending his time to causes close to his heart like the KU Audio-Reader Network, where he was a volunteer reader for over 40 years.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Erma, and their son Brad, who passed away in 1973. He is also preceded by his parents and his brothers, Bob and Tom Fisher.
He is survived by daughter Lisa, husband Jamie Gilbert, granddaughters Mallory and Loralei Gilbert, and his nieces & nephews: Mike Fisher, Steve Fisher, Meg Fisher, Doug Jordan, Pam Jordan, Don Jordan, Cheryl Miller, Debbie Carstens and Connie Arnstead.
Visitation will be Thursday, April 17, 2025, from 7:00-8:00 pm, at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home. Graveside Services will be held Friday, April 18, 2025, at 10:00 am at Memorial Park Cemetery.
In memory of Chuck, donations may be made to Audio-Reader https://securelb.imodules.com/s/1312/lg21/form.aspx?sid=1312&gid=1&pgid=650&cid=1568&bledit=1&dids=404.1897&sort=1&appealcode=WDP
My wife, Nancy, and I were sitting in the large historic lobby of the Red Lion Inn, Stockbridge, Massachusetts—we were discussing being far away from Lawrence we would know no one—just then Chuck and Erma came walking in!
Chuck will always be remembered for his kindnesses, fun conversations , and caring actions. We had the pleasure of meeting the Fisher family years ago as we were riding horses at the famous Mott Ranch. Our special friendship began with Erma and Chuck and family and have given us so many wonderful memories and delightful experiences together. Through the years all special occasions were celebrated with one another—- holidays, birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, graduations, special occasions , yes and memorials —you name it we were always there for one another!. He was a person who cared about people and put his ideas to action to help others.
Chuck will be remembered as a civic leader, a devoted husband and father, a beloved grandfather, and friend. Yes, he knew the true moments of joy. Many blessings,
From your friends in Dallas.
We are very sorry for your loss. Chuck was a great neighbor and always had a funny story to share anytime we saw him. Up until fairly recently, he always insisted on bringing our trash cans up to the house so it looked like someone was home. We need more people in the world like Chuck and he will certainly be missed. Our heartfelt condolences to all of the family.
Chuck and Erma were good friends of Ray’s and mine for many years. I will always remember that each had a great sense of humor. My sincere condolences to Lisa and her family.
Chuc k was a real banker. He told me that he would rather make 10 $500 dollar loans because they would all be paid back rather than make a $5,000 loan which could end up in default. He enjoyed helping those 10 people. I went to see Chuck about buying a parcel of land. Chuck said to me “you don’t have any money and I said to him “that’s why I am here to see you”. He made the loan that day .
I would stop in the bank and he would always invite me to his office and share the delight he had for his daughter and Erma. Later the daughter was to be married and I was invited, I always value that. And then the family cruises and vacations. Chuck was a really good husband , father and an asset to the community that many are not aware of. He had a smile for everyone and a great sense of humor. Thank you “Chuck” for being there for me and for many others.
My deepest sympathy to Chuck’s family. He happily gave many generous hours as Treasurer of the Lawrence All British Car Club. He and Erma were both beautiful people and will be missed. Chuck took me to my first Jayhawk basketball game! He asked my late husband James, but James suggested he take me since I was new to Lawrence and hadn’t yet been to a game. So very kind.
I met Chuck through the British Car Club, he got a hood laugh at the fact I picked on the Brit Cars more than anyone (I’m from the UK). A true gentleman and will be missed by many….RIP Sir
Very sad to hear of Chuck’s passing. Among his many accomplishments and contributions to the community, he was a stalwart member of the Lawrence All British Car Club and served as its treasurer for many years. Chuck and Erma always attended as many meetings as possible, even after Erma’s declining health made that increasingly difficult for both. I am sure all our former members who knew Chuck would join me in saying that he and Erma will be missed.
We are so sorry to hear of the loss of your father. We hope your precious memories surround you with love and comfort.
Mary and Gary Bennett