Arnold Ralph Fischbach

Arnold "Arnie" Fischbach  December 10, 1934 - March 20, 2026

Born in the very same hospital as the woman who would one day become his lifelong partner, Arnie spent his childhood working hard and laying the groundwork for the family that he built with his beloved wife of 71 years, Frances ("Fran").

Arnie grew up on the river-bottom of the Mississippi River with his mother Dorothy ("Little Gran"), father Robert, brothers Jerry and Ronnie, and sisters Diane, Dorothy ("Sis") and Darlene ("Bubs"). Always preparing for his future, his first job was carrying newspapers with his sister. Later he pumped gas, fixed cars, worked for the railroad, and ended his career as shift supervisor at 3M where he retired after more than 20 years of service.

Arnie had a natural talent for mechanics and engineering, and his best days were spent working in his yard, helping his loved ones with home improvement projects, and tinkering in his garage and at the lake cottage. In true "Papa" fashion, he passed away while working on his lawn mower, with an instruction manual and a cushion sewed by Fran nearby.

Arnie and Fran made friends all over the country, but Arnie especially thrived while snowbirding in Florida, where he played shuffleboard competitively and met some of his closest friends.

A quiet but playful grandfather who grew more affectionate as he aged, Arnie was most proud of the family he built. Preceding him in death were his son Arnold (Jean) and son-in-law, Chris.

He is survived by his daughter Cindy, and son Bob (Kelly). He leaves behind five beloved grandchildren: Christina, Casey (Jonathan), Ali (Ben), Aaron (Tara), and Alyssa (Eric), and nine cherished great-grandchildren: Max, Ava, Lily, Gabe, Henry, Eli, Raylee, Axel, and Kinsley.

Along with Fran's companionship and homemade meals (and treats) the young children in his family brought him the most joy as he aged.

Funeral mass will be held at St. Mary's of the Lake in White Bear Lake on April 16 at 11:00 am. Visitation at 10:00 am.

Only Papa could fill the special role he held in our family.  He was a patient teacher who taught us the value of working hard, showing respect, paying yourself first, and taking the time to do things correctly. Those life lessons and his legacy will be passed on for generations.