Erika M. Fisher of Susquehanna, PA, left us on January 11, 2018. Erika was born, February 2, 1942, in Berlin, Germany, to the late Maximillian and Charlotte (Obst) Vantler, both of Berlin Germany. Erika is now having a long-awaited reunion with her loving husband, Kenneth W. Fisher, who predeceased her in November 2004. Ken and Erika had the most loving and endearing relationship a husband and wife could have. Now that they are reunited, their journey has come full circle. She was admired by many and thought of highly by her co-workers, employees, and many friends. While she will be dearly missed, we cannot be sad, as she is now in the arms of her love.
Along with her devoted husband, Erika was predeceased by her mother and father-in-law; Alice and Willard Collier; her brothers, Klaus Vantler, Dieter Vantler, sister Giselle Vantler (Germany), children, Patricia (Fisher) Wolfe and Michael Fisher; granddaughter, Erin Fisher and grandson, Michael J. Fisher.
Erika is survived by many who loved her, especially her children, Kenneth Fisher, Jr. (Loretta), Joseph Fisher (Sharon), Scott Fisher (Tracie Osterhout), Monika Case (Robert), Christina Radicchi (Marko); her grandchildren, Allison, Philip, Scott, Ben, Derek, Matthew, Tim, Nick, Patrick, Tom, Kimberly, Lucky, Rusty, several great-grandchildren and family in Germany, loving brother, Peter (Bridgette) Vantler and sister, Ingrid; nephews, Jan, Kai, and Lutz Vantler; There are also two very special friends left behind to carry on Erika’s duties as parent and confidant, Les and Sandy Schell, a very dear friend, Sara Armetta and Erika’s sister by heart, Marita Sellitto (“Sis”).
Erika courageously came to America from Berlin, Germany in 1962. She eventually found her way to the love of her life, Ken. Set up by a mutual friend, it was love at first sight for Ken. For months he would go see Erika at the medical office where Erika worked. He would frequently go there to “donate blood” and when he was told he couldn’t donate any more, he dragged in his military officers to donate blood. After many proposals, Erika finally gave in to that crazy man with the 3 children. They were soon married, both having children from previous marriages, to begin their love affair with sweetness and never ending atonement. Surrounded by their combined 5 children and a dog, they ventured on their honeymoon! They quickly formed their own family, making memories that will last a lifetime. Erika was a very devoted mother, friend and wife.
Erika enjoyed the outdoors, gardening, classical music, reading and classic movies. Erika was a retired administrator of Barnes Kasson Hospital and Health Centers. Erika’s most precious moments in her life were those spent with her sweetheart, Ken. Her most cherished accomplishment was building her home with her beloved Ken, their “Own little corner of the world”, The Country Manor. A very proud moment for Erika was when she graduated from Wilkes College, with a Bachelor’s degree. Her mother came from Germany to be by her side.
A funeral service was held on Tuesday, January 16, 2018, at the Hennessey’s Funeral Home, 747 Jackson Ave., Susquehanna, with Pastor Vincent Chiaramonte officiating.
At Erika’s request there will be a private burial with family and close friends at the McKune Cemetery, Oakland, PA.
Donations in Erika’s memory may be made to the Susquehanna Fire Department or Barnes Kasson Hospital. Those unable to attend services may pay tribute to Erika by spending time with their family and loved ones, sharing their fondest memories of Erika. Reminiscing was Erika’s favorite past-time.
Words cannot express adequately enough, the amount of gratitude felt to Dr. P. Patel and the nurses at Barnes Kasson Hospital. Their care, dedication and compassion were astounding and unmatched by any. Thank you to all.