GRANDVILLE, Mich. (March 9, 2014)- It’s hard to imagine a 17-year-old leaving a legacy, one that impacts an entire community; a presence so strong it brings competitors to tears, even after he’s gone.
Hundreds mourning the life of star athlete and student Ryan Fischer came to Grandville High School Sunday to celebrate his life.
Fischer died Friday of an enlarged heart.
For more than three hours, family and friends in the Grandville community shared stories and memories of a high school senior everyone seemed to love.
“There wasn’t a day that went by that he didn’t have a smile on his face,” classmate Karlee Kapowicz said.
Family says Fischer prepared his whole life to serve in the military; he was just months away from starting at West Point Academy when he died.
But, it’s not the laundry list of accomplishments those who knew Fischer say they’ll miss most, not his athletic ability or his perfect grades. It’s his character and the way he made them feel.
“It’s how he treated people, even though he was an incredible leader and was an incredible athlete, he was a great friend.” Grandville Superintendent Ron Caniff said.
Visitation for Ryan Fischer will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 11, at Cook Memorial Chapel, 4235 Prairie St. SW (east building), with a Rosary at 7 p.m.
Funeral Mass will be 11 a.m. Wednesday at St.Pius X Catholic Church, 3937 Wilson Ave. in Grandville. Father Chris Rouech will be presiding.
Family asks in honor of Ryan, contributions be made to The Wounded Warrior Project or Wes Leonard Heart Foundation.
