Mary Ann Fischer of Alexandria, VA, passed away at 80 on March 27 following a near-lifelong battle with juvenile diabetes. Proud mother of two, and wife of Joseph V. Fischer, she bravely persevered through many complications and conditions throughout her life, proving that in the face of illness, any challenge can be overcome. As one of eleven siblings, Mary Ann was raised in downtown Rochester, NY, and served her community as an English teacher while obtaining her Masters in Speech Therapy at University of Rochester.
Following a move with her husband to the Washington, D.C. area, and after giving birth to twin sons, she devoted part of her time to teaching students with special needs, and officially retired in 2002. She and Joe traveled the world as retirees, seeing the corners of the globe together and enjoying time being grandparents. Her biggest passions were family, music, and faith, often combining all three as a loyal parishioner to Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Alexandria, VA.
All who knew her are aware of her exemplary bravery for managing her conditions and resulting disabilities with unmatched courage, and the joy she brought to the countless friends who were awed by her lust for life.
She is survived by her husband of fifty years, Joseph Fischer, sons Jonathan and Stephen, and one grandchild. A Memorial Mass will be held at Blessed Sacrament Church on April 12th at 11 AM to celebrate her remarkable lifetime.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Joslin Diabetes Center, Type 1 fund, in her memory (see link below).
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