Craig Wes Fisher, "Mr. Entertainer", 73, of Spring Twp., and formerly of Mohnton, entered into the Lord's Kingdom on Wednesday, September 21, 2011, after being a patient in the Reading Hospital since September 15. Craig married his high school sweetheart, Joan E. (Hoffert) Fisher. The couple celebrated 53 years of "wedded bliss".
Born in West Reading, he was the son of Jayne (Rocktashel) Fisher, Spring Twp., and the late Wesley C. Fisher. Craig was a 1956 graduate of Governor Mifflin High School. While in high school, he played string bass in District and State Orchestra. After high school, Craig graduated from The Toledo School of Meat Cutting. He then worked at Smith Meats and his grandfather's butcher shop. He also worked in sales and marketing for many years, setting up franchises for Frye Safety, Inc., traveling throughout the United States. Craig was a member of Calvary United Methodist Church, Mohnton.
Throughout his life, Craig organized and directed many bands, one of which was known as the "Wedding Band". He also had a Dixieland band. He planned and presented "Praise the Lord" services in various churches; and planned, directed and narrated "Having Fun with Music" to numerous schools with much success. Craig's musical career was wide-spread. He played at President Reagan's inauguration twice and the inauguration of Governor Thornburgh. For 30-plus years, he organized and played at the Christmas Eve Jam Sessions starting at noon. Many local and out-of-town musicians looked forward to "jamming". Craig was also the Master of Ceremonies at several Mayors prayer breakfasts.
Craig was heavily involved in politics. He was a Republican Party Committeeman for over 40 years. He served as legislature aide to Representative Jim Gallen; and assisted and organized campaigns of Representative Sam Rohrer, Governor Tom Ridge, and many others. Craig served as Constable and Berks County Jury Commissioner.
Craig's love of horses took him to many levels. He participated in horse shows beginning at age 8 and brought home many blue ribbons. He trained many ponies and horses; and was also known as the youngest 6 pony hitch driver in the East. Craig and his horse, "Cinnabar", and carriage could be seen in parades, weddings, proms and anniversary celebrations. Craig had a zest for life which was infectious to many! He loved family gatherings.
Surviving in addition to his wife and mother are three daughters: Connie J. Radwanski, husband Peter and children Gentry and Adrienne; Vicki C. Kerns, husband Jed and children Blake and Olivia; and Jill S. Krewson, husband David and children Meredith, David, Grace, and Abigayle. Craig was predeceased by a sister: Kathie (Fisher) Deck.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Tuesday at 11:00 am from Calvary United Methodist Church, 1 W. Wyomissing Avenue, Mohnton, PA 19540. Craig's family will greet relatives and friends following the service. Burial will be at the convenience of the family in Pleasant View Cemetery, Spring Twp. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to Calvary United Methodist Church Memorial Fund, in memory of Craig Wes Fisher, at the above address. Leibensperger Funeral Homes, Inc., Hamburg is in charge of arrangements. For online condolences, please visit, www.leibenspergerfuneralhomes.com.