Fred Isch

Fred R. Isch, 81, passed away early morning on Tuesday, July 1, 2014 at Adams Evergreen. Fred was born on August 5, 1932 in Adams County, IN to the late Ralph S. Isch and Opal L. (Walters) Isch Lillich. On June 7, 1953 he married Nola (Grandstaff) Isch. She preceded him in death on April 12, 2009. Fred was a member of St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church. He was a 1950 graduate of Decatur High School. He served in United States Army during the Korean War. Fred served on the North Adams School Board from 1968-75 where he was influential in consolidation of local schools to create Bellmont High School. He also served as a city councilman. He was the recipient of the Sagamore of the Wabash award and also received the Stephen Decatur award. Fred served as a 5-term Mayor for the City of Decatur, prior to that he had worked for 30 years at the Decatur Daily Democrat, and also served as a police officer. Fred loved his community and said the highlight of his long political career was serving the people of Decatur. Surviving is his son Tony (Ann) Isch; daughter Lisa (Tony) Inskeep both of Decatur; three brothers Hubert (Roberta) Isch of Decatur, Dave (Sue) Isch of Florida, and Larry Isch of Decatur; a step brother Fred “Bud” (Jeanne) Lillich of Ohio; two sisters-in-law Lois Isch and Mary (Bob) Strickler both of Decatur; five grandchildren Andy (Jenna) Isch, Logan and Noah Isch, Chloe and Jordyn Inskeep. Preceding Fred in death is a granddaughter Katie Ann Inskeep, a brother John Isch. Visitation will be from Noon-6:00 p.m. Friday, July 4, 2014 at Haggard-Sefton & Hirschy Funeral Home. Reciting of the Holy Rosary will be at 6:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 5, 2014 at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church with calling from 10:00-11:00 a.m. at the St. Mary’s Parish Hall. Officiating will be Father David Voors and Father Patrick Joseph. Burial will be in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery with Military Rites by the American Legion Post 43 Color Guard. Memorials are to St. Mary’s Building On Our Heritage or ACCF Stellar Community Fund.