Published: October 25, 2009 12:01 am      

Soccer fields named after Fisher

Sangralea Valley honors former board member who died in April.

ONWARD — When John D. Fisher passed away in April, Juanita Jackson knew right away she wanted to do something to preserve his memory.

Jackson, former executive director at Sangralea Valley and J.D.’s friend, decided the best way to honor J.D. was by naming the soccer fields after him.

“I wanted to do something that would remain for his family and the soccer club,” she said.

The John D. Fisher Memorial Field Dedication was held at Sangralea Valley on Saturday afternoon with a short speech by Jackson and the unveiling of a memorial sign.

During her speech, Juanita explained J.D.’s role with the soccer club and Sangralea Valley.

J.D. served on the Sangralea Valley board of directors for 11 years and was vice president at the time of his passing.

Before J.D. even became involved with the board of directors, he discussed the idea of a soccer team.

In 1999, J.D. was responsible for starting the Sangralea Valley Soccer Club. Ten years later, the program is still offered to the community.

“John was a great and entertaining guy,” Jackson said. “He always said he came to the meetings just for the cookies. He wasn’t afraid to roll up his sleeves either.”

Jackson explained how J.D. was involved in coaching, officiating and sponsoring teams each year. He also helped raise money to purchase equipment with the philosophy that all children should be able to participate in the league.

Since it was started, the soccer club grew from 40 athletes and one coach to 14 teams and 26 coaches.

“We would not be here today if it wasn’t for John,” Jackson said. “I really can’t say enough about John’s dedication.”

The sign is temporarily located in front of the soccer fields at Sangralea Valley. Jackson said it will be moved once a new building on the property is built to a location with heaviest foot traffic.

J.D.’s wife, Dawn Fisher, was surprised when Jackson called her about the dedication.

“It just blows us away,” she said. “We’re so touched by the fact they wanted to name the field after him.”

Dawn said her husband loved to work in the field and to coach. He also loved the fact that every child had the chance to play.

“He would have been humbled,” she said. “It’s a huge honor.”

• Denise Massie is a staff writer at the Pharos-Tribune. She can be reached at 574-732-5151 or denise.massie@pharostribune.com