George A. Fischer

George A. "Duke" Fischer of Indian Wells, Calif., passed away May 14, 2008, at Eisenhower Hospital of a brief illness.

Duke was born July 29, 1931, in Omaha, Nebraska, to Dr. George and Jean Fischer and was raised in Du Quoin, Illinois.  The family moved to Wilmette, Illinois, where he attended New Trier High School and Northwestern University.  He graduated in 1953.

He served in the U.S. Army from 1953-1955 with the 82nd Airborne Division in Germany.  While stationed there, he led a number of sports teams to championships in the European Theatre.  After he was discharged from the Army, he maintained a life long interest in sports.

He began his Pharmacy studies at the University of Arizona and received his Pharmacy degree in 1958.  He was a member of the Kappa Psi National Pharmacy fraternity.  During this time he married Nancy Marcia Naujoks, and upon graduation, they moved to California.  In 1963 he opened the Fireside Pharmacy in Palm Desert.  Duke enjoyed the challenge of operating his own business, but his special talent was the connection he had with his customers.  Duke had a friendly, humorous, infectious personality and a true desire to care and serve the people who came to his pharmacy.

He sold the business in 1978 and continued as a Relief Pharmacist for many years.  He recently received recognition from the California State Board commending him for 50 years of service as a Registered Pharmacist.

Duke dabbled in dune buggies, classic cars, golf and he had a special love for animals.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Nancy, his two sons, Scott Fischer, wife Ann Marie and grandchildren Caitlin and Nickalaus of Colorado Springs, Colo., and Jeffrey Fischer of Palm Desert.  Also deeply saddened are his brother Dr. Stanton Fischer and wife Marie of Houston, Texas.

Services will be held Friday, May 23, at 2 p.m. at the Palm Desert Community Presbyterian Church.  In lieu of flowers, the family suggest donations may be made to The Living Desert.
