In Memory: Jan. 26

From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory

Robert “Bobby” W. Fisher, Jr., 70, Vero Beach

October 02, 1950 – January 23, 2021

Robert “Bobby” William Fisher, Jr., age 70, lost his battle with cancer on Saturday, January 23, 2021, surrounded by his family. Bobby was born on October 2, 1950 in Springfield, Ohio to Florence and Robert Fisher, Sr. He married Betty on July 20, 1985, residing in Springfield until they moved to Vero Beach, Florida in 1999. Growing up, he attended Gilmore Academy, Catholic Central High School, and Wittenberg University.

In the 70s, Bobby was a Nascar and Formula 1 race car driver, racing against some of the greats, including Earnhardt and Petty. Racing remained a part of his life, which could be seen in his collection of sports cars and memorabilia showcased at one of his favorite hangouts – his Car Shop, Bobby Fisher MotorSports. In 1976, he acquired and expanded a family-owned and operated beer distributorship from his parents. He was a recipient of several prestigious awards from a vast array of suppliers. An avid boater, he received his Professional Mariner’s License in 2010 and because of this, he was “forced” to take his family and friends on numerous boat rides. Golfing with his friends, traveling, reading, fishing, and celebrating milestones with his family on cruise ships, were among some of his favorite activities, as was, of course, enjoying an ice-cold beer.

He is survived by his wife, Betty A. Fisher, of 35 years; his children, Jennifer A. Scannelli (Derek), Nina A. Wiley (Steven), Albert J. Polizzi, Jr. (Desiree), Maria L. Fisher, and Angela M. Stafford (Max); and his grandchildren, Lexi M. Wiley, Sophia E. Kane, Kirsten L. Wiley, Corrine E. Kane, Tristan T. R. Coleman, Trey F. Coleman, Everly P. Stafford, Rowan L. Stafford, and a newest addition expected in May; siblings, Maryann Becker and James Fisher. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Florence, and his brother, Woodrow Fisher.

Local arrangements by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach, FL. Visitation will be held at CONROY FUNERAL HOME, 1660 E. High Street, Springfield, OH 45505, on Friday, January 29, 2021 from 4 – 7pm. A service will be held at St. Teresa Catholic Church, 1827 N. Limestone Street, Springfield, OH 45503 on Saturday, January 30, 2021 at 11am. Following the service, the processional will include a caravan of the Fisher Fleet through Springfield as a tribute to his love of the beer business. Pallbearers will be Bruce Clapper, Ronnie Yontz, Albert Polizzi, Derek Scannelli, Steven Wiley, and Max Stafford. A reception will be held immediately following the burial at Bobby Fisher Distributing, 2024 Selma Pike, Springfield, OH 45505.

The Fisher family would like to thank the caring staff at Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida, and Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital in Vero Beach.

While Bobby is remembered for many things, his family will always remember him best through the lyrics of one of his favorite songs:

“And so I face the final curtain

My friends, I’ll say it clear

I’ll state my case of which I’m certain

I’ve lived a life that’s full

I traveled each and every highway

But more, much more than this

I did it my way.”

From Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory

Michael Joseph O’hara, 74, Sebastian

January 16, 1947 – January 16, 2021

Michael O’Hara, 74, Sebastian FL, born January 16, 1947 in Philadelphia, PA passed away peacefully on January 16, 2021.

Son of Daniel and Jeanne (Ulshafer) O’Hara, Michael is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Deborah Hogan of Johnstown, PA and children Brian and Michael (Maria Valinis) as well as grandchildren Brendan, Colin, and Meghan.  He is also survived by his siblings Jeanne Marie Gorman (Charles), Daniel (Janice LaChetta), Kevin (Mary Grandizio) and Tim (Linda Thomas).

Michael retired from Penn Central Railroad and The Vanguard School, Paoli, PA. Mike played semi-pro football for the Aston Knights of Ridley Township, PA, and later he enjoyed coaching his sons and many others in both youth football and baseball.

Mike was proud to serve in the Navy during the Vietnam Conflict and was stationed on the U.S.S. Newport News. He was also a member of The American Legion Post 0366.

After retirement Mike and Debbie’s love of the warm weather brought them to Florida where they created many memories in Key Largo, North Fort Myers and finally Sebastian.  They were able to continue to enjoy trips with family, happy hours with friends, and beautiful sunsets together.

He will be sadly missed by family and friends.  A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are entrusted to Strunk Funeral Home, 1623 North Central Avenue, Sebastian, Florida 32958.

From Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory

Sherman John Allen, Jr.

February 03, 1940 – January 23, 2021

Sherman John Allen, Jr. (born 1940), passed away early Saturday morning in his sleep. He lived quite a life and was loved by many. He was the second of seven. The Allen family home in Stoneham, Mass, where he grew up, was an amazing crossroads of characters, with smokey late-night card games, intrigue in the kitchen, kids darting around, and an always-open door. It was so full of life. He was married for 55 years and has three grown children and 5 grandchildren. He retired from the Air Force as master sergeant and went on to be a very successful entrepreneur until he retired. He had a great mind for business, an immovable integrity, and had a special connection with kids and the elderly. He could meet them right where they are, in a joyful and mischievous way. He was obsessive about safety and completing things. He had a great memory that made him lethal in political arguments. He travelled and lived all over the world, but was most interested in his family and home. Wherever he lived was solid and well-built. Safe. Comfortable. One of his best friends said this about him: “He was so proud of and loved his family. On several occasions, he told me how happy he was being married to your mother. Most men don’t talk about that. John was not like most men, he was much better.” He’ll be dearly missed.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 4:30 PM, Thursday, January 28, 2021 at Strunk Funeral Home, 1623 North Central Avenue, Sebastian, Florida 32958 with Chaplain Richard Whipple, officiating. Military Honors will be given by the U.S. Air Force.

From Cox-Gifford Seawinds Funeral Home & Crematory

Jerry Dritenbas, 34

November 20, 1986 – January 19, 2021

Jerry R. Dritenbas passed away January 19, 2021. Funeral services will be Saturday, January 30th, 1:00 p.m. at Cox Gifford Funeral Chapel followed by interment in Crestlawn Cemetery. Full obituary to come.

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