Harlan Fisher

Harlan David Fisher was born on September 28, 1961, in Chicago, Illinois, to Lonnie B. Fisher, Sr. and Ruth Mae (Williams) Fisher. At an early age, he accepted Christ and was baptized at Tabernacle Baptist Church. Harlan was raised in Chicago, where he graduated from Simeon High School in 1980. He later earned a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering Technology from Central State University in Wilberforce, Ohio, in 1986. While at Central State, he became a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Delta Zeta Chapter, as part of the “Furious Fifteen,” and met his college sweetheart, Vanessa, who became his loving wife of 37 years. Harlan built a distinguished career of more than 25 years in manufacturing and operations leadership, serving organizations including Inalfa Roof Systems, Coca-Cola, Chrysler Corporation, Gage Products, and LTV Copperweld/Maverick Pipe and Tube. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. Harlan was known for his outgoing personality, sharp sense of humor, and ability to keep everyone around him laughing. He never met a stranger and loved talking about sports, cars, and everyday life. He was a proud Chicago Bears fan, an avid bowler, and a master griller. Above all, he loved spending time with his family, especially his granddaughters, Savannah and Sage. He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Vanessa Williams Fisher; his sons, Harlan David Fisher II (Brittany) and Marcus Allen Fisher; his grandchildren, Savannah Fisher and Sage Fisher; his siblings, Lolita Fisher, Lonnie B. Fisher Jr. (Charlene), Adrienne Carter, and Denise Fisher; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lonnie B. Fisher, Sr. and Ruth Mae (Williams) Fisher; his siblings, Oscar Gibson, Rickey Fisher, and Dwayne Fisher; his father-and-mother-in-law, Samuel and Odessie Williams; and his brother-in-law, Gerard Williams. Harlan’s life was defined by love, leadership, laughter, and connection. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.

Harlan Fisher

September 28, 1961 - April 11, 2026