George W. Fisk

After graduating from Springfield’s Technical High School in 1940, he served in the 9th Infantry Division, European Theater of Operations, from 1942-1945. He was wounded in Germany and awarded the Purple Heart. Following the war, he completed his Bachelors degree from the American International College and subsequently earned a Masters degree at the same institution. In 1948, he married Ernestine Saidera and George began his career in education. They lived in Springfield for several years before moving to Longmeadow.

George dedicated 36 years to the Springfield public school system as a teacher, an assistant principal in several elementary schools, and ultimately as the principal of the Sumner Elementary School. In 1963 his colleagues nominated him for the Passios Award—an annual award for the Outstanding Elementary Principal in Massachusetts. They praised him for his leadership during a difficult period of integration and for developing an inclusive school environment. George was chosen as the recipient of the award that year by the MA Elementary School Principals Association for his “professionalism, leadership in developing programs, exceptional dedication to the job, enthusiasm and unselfish attitude toward helping others.” George retired in 1984 and with his wife, Ernestine, at his side moved to Chatham.

In retirement, the couple enjoyed time on their power boat, the Erni K, and as members of the Monomoy Yacht Club, where George served as Commodore from 1994-1996. George was also active in the Chatham Retired Mens Association and served as Moderator in 1998. They enjoyed traveling throughout New England and abroad—whether in a Cadillac, Mustang or on a cruise ship. In later years George kept his mind sharp at the bridge table. His friends knew him as an astute and creative hand at the card table, and he was especially adept at playing “No Trump” contracts; only two weeks ago he was more than holding his own with his Thursday men’s group.

A truly wonderful gentleman, possessed of a dry New England whit, George will be dearly missed. A memorial service was held at St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church on October 8th, and he was buried the following day with military honors at the National Cemetery in Bourne. Anyone wishing to remember George, please consider making a donation to the Eldredge Public Library in his name.