The print industry is mourning the loss of John Fisher, one of its much-loved leaders.
John Fisher Printing
Fisher started in printing when he joined the family business, Specialty Pack established by his father Jack in the 1950’s.
In the 1960s the company became John Fisher Printing, and John successfully ran the business in Bathurst Street, Sydney, before it moved to Marrickville where it remains today.
Remembering John
Fisher will be remembered as having a magnetic personality and being a great supporter of the industry. He worked tirelessly with PATEFA/PIAA, the Paper Council, as well as the LIA, serving as a past president and a life member of the Association.
He hosted the National Print Awards and was awarded ‘Australian Graphic Arts Person of the Year’ in 2000, a significant achievement. In his spare time, he was secretary and life member of the Manly Rugby Club.
Known for his outgoing, fun-loving attitude, Fisher was a devoted family man and a print industry colleague who took pride in his business. He was fond of his industry colleagues and mentored many in their success.
The Industry mourns
The Visual Media Association’s CEO Kellie Northwood said; “We sadly report of the recent passing of a great industry leader, John Fisher of John Fisher Printing. Condolences to Tony, the Fisher family, and the John Fisher Printing team. Vale John Fisher.”
Colleague at Imagination Graphics, Emmanuel Buhagiar, said he met Fisher around 1988, when he called into John Fisher Printing.
“John was a very distinguished businessman, loved and respected by all in the printing industry. He would give everyone the time of day. I remember him saying, “Now what can I do for you young man?”
Buhagiar said John was tall, with a distinctive strong voice and a presence. He would take the time out to sit with you to discuss rugby and other sports, and ask about your business.
“Our relationship grew stronger and stronger over the years as John Fisher Printing expanded, securing our business dealings. He knew how to look after his suppliers and workers. His son Tony and nephew Toby have followed in his footsteps continuing to drive the family business. To this day, Imagination Graphics and John Fisher Printing enjoy a healthy working relationship,” Buhagiar said.
“A true gentleman, he will be sorely missed by all in the printing Industry and his family.”
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Thank you to all of the Printing Industry for the kind & generous words following the passing of our father John Fisher in February 2024. He will be truly missed by all – family, friends & colleagues. Carolyn McEachern (daughter)
The family appreciates the very kind comments & thoughts expressed during the year after the passing of our dad, John Fisher & the moving ‘memorian’ delivered by Aaron Lusch at the 2024 ProPrint Awards, which honoured many of the recently lost ‘Titans of the industry’.
Dad was a true gentleman who was respected by his peers, he left an indelible mark on those that knew him & was was admired greatly by his many friends from the industry.
Our business was the greater for his stewardship & managerial expertise & we were the better for his knowledge, guidance & kindness.
He loved the industry & the many people he had contact with, we will all miss him immensely.