Larry L. Fisher, IVCC maintenance mechanic, died suddenly Nov. 23, 2000. He was 49.

Since May 1992, Fisher had worked on the heating, air conditioning, ventilation and electrical systems at the college.

He also served as the shop steward and lead negotiator for Service Employees International Union, local 138. In the role of lead negotiator, Fisher was instrumental in implementing interest based bargaining principles for addressing contract issues and for resolving matters of concern within the bargaining unit.

Larry Rousey, director of the physical plant, said Fisher was the main person over the control of the HVAC system.

"His input on project planning was valuable and his interaction with all of the Physical Plant employees is something that will not be forgotten," Rousey said. "Larry dedicated 8 ½ years of his life to IVCC, driving 60 miles each way daily to come to work. His presence in the shop and throughout the college will be missed."

Jim Kilday, who worked with Fisher, described him as a quiet man.

"You had to get to know him, but he’d always be there to help you."

Fisher, who was the Assistant Chief on the Ashton Fire Department, had served as a volunteer with the department for 22 years. He helped to start the E.M.T. program there.

Fisher was born Sept. 27, 1951 in Taylorville to George F. and Charlotte Enlow Fisher. He married Sandra Heckman in October 1972.

He is survived by his wife of Ashton; two daughters, Amy Rockwood of Ashton and Carla McLindsay of Dixon; one brother, Ronald Fisher of Ashton; and one grandchild, Samantha Rockwood of Ashton. He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.

Funeral services were on Nov. 27, 2000, at the Ashton United Methodist Church where he had been a member. Interment was at the Ashton Cemetery.