Catholic priest
Brian Joseph Fischer, 71, died peacefully on Jan. 27, 2025 at Loyola Hospital. He grew up in Mount Prospect in St Raymond Parish, the second of seven children of Jim and Adrienne Fischer. He pursued religious studies at Quigley Preparatory Seminary, Niles College and University of St. Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary. He was ordained in the Archdiocese of Chicago in 1979 and dedicated the next 40 years of his life to studying liturgy, preaching the gospel and celebrating Mass. He studied in Rome, taught at Mundelein Seminary, and served in the Chicago-area parishes of Faith, Hope and Charity and St. Gregory the Great.
Known for his insightful reflections on the teachings of Christ, he consoled those experiencing loss, brought joy to marriage ceremonies, and lifted up the powerless and oppressed with his Sunday homilies. He honored those who died before him with eloquent comments on faith and life. In so doing, he helped many reflect on how Jesus might have lived in today’s world.
He retired in 2020 and moved to Oak Park to be near his family. Although he considered himself an introvert, he embraced every opportunity to share his appreciation of fiction, art, history and music. He loved exploring Oak Park, enjoyed virtual book club meetings, and stayed in touch with his many friends.
Brian is survived by his brothers, Keith (Donna), Bruce (Liz), and Jude (Anna Garrido), and his sister, Jamie (Dan Poro), as well as his Most and Fischer cousins. He was predeceased by his parents, Jim and Adrienne, and his brothers, Neil and Craig (Megan). He is also survived by his nieces and nephews and their spouses and children: Darcey (Joe Poulin), Katherine (Ivan Reynolds), Emma (Mike Tarantino), Lincoln (Ashley), Lily (Adrian Brown), Dylan (Katie), Zoie (Nick Prudenzano), Neil (Sophie), Clark (Allison), Lucy (Ron Wolfe), Jack, Dom and Paul.
Memorial services will be private.
