ELKHART -- Gurley Rebecca Fisher, 95, passed away in her home Thursday (Sept, 3, 2009), surrounded by her children.

She was born on Sept. 13, 1913, in Elkhart to James and Flossie (Shreiner) VanTilburg. On Oct. 23, 1932, she married Raymond Harry Fisher. He died on July 17, 1969.

She is survived by one son, Michael (Peggy) Fisher of Elkhart, and two daughters, Patricia Fisher of Tampa, Fla., and Rachael (Clyde) Garrett of Elkhart; as well as nine grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and seven great-great grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by five brothers; Carl, Wendell, James, Walter and Herbert VanTilburg; and one sister; Alice VanTilburg Kegg.

Mrs. Fisher and her husband owned and operated the Swiss Kitchen on Bower Street and Fisher's Catering. She worked many jobs as she got older. Retirement was difficult for her active lifestyle. She worked at Mario's Deli and Catering, at Sautter's and as a real estate agent. She was a member of the Elkhart General Hospital Auxiliary for more than 40 years, where she volunteered at the Cheery Corner and then did sewing for pediatric and cancer patients.

Mrs. Fisher loved to garden and sew. She created quilts for her family members that will always be cherished. She also took great pride in her family, especially those who served in the armed forces.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, Sept. 6, 2009, from 3 to 6 p.m., at Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart. A private graveside service will take place at a later date with Pastor Steve Campagana of the Goshen First Church of God officiating.

Memorials may be given to The Center for Hospice and Palliative Care, 111 Sunnybrook Court, South Bend, IN 46637, or a charity of one's choice. Visit www.billingsfuneralhome.com to send online condolences.