Preston “PFish” Fischer passed away unexpectedly at 25 on November 2, 2025, leaving a huge sadness among family and friends.
Preston was a young man who lived life with passion, faith, and a love for the outdoors that inspired those around him.
Born on February 10, 2000, in Toledo, Ohio, Preston was the middle child of Chad and Kristy Fischer.
He grew up with his brothers, Jake and Anthony, who were more than siblings; they were his best friends.
The three of them were inseparable, always adventuring together, protecting one another, and sharing endless inside jokes.
Their bond was a force of nature, marked by laughter and support.
Preston declared his faith in Jesus at an early age. He was part of the Westgate Chapel and Church 3 Twenty-One youth groups, and he was baptized in 2006.
This faith remained with him throughout his life and shaped the kind and caring person he became.
Preston Fischer was a Standout Athlete During his High School Years
Preston attended Sylvania Southview High School and graduated in 2018, where he was a standout lacrosse goalie for all four years, a football and hockey player, and served as class president, as well as a member of the National Honor Society.
His leadership and athletic skills made him a role model for his peers.
After high school, he went to The Ohio State University. There, he met some of his closest friends and joined the Theta Chi Fraternity.
He graduated in May 2023 with a degree in Forestry, Fisheries, and Wildlife, with a focus on Fish Species Management.
Preston turned his love for nature into a career path that excited him every day.
Preston chased his dreams right out of college.
He started with his dream job on Lake Yellowstone, then moved to Idaho for work in species management.
Most recently, he was a Fisheries Biologist for the Wisconsin DNR in their Musky Division. He thrived in these roles, surrounded by the water and wildlife he adored.
The outdoors was Preston’s true happy place. He loved watching sunrises and sunsets, often driving to the perfect spot to snap photos and share them with family on Snapchat.
Catching musky, kayaking on Wisconsin rivers, hunting deer, duck, turkey, bear, or elk, and operating a boat were his joys.
He recently earned his Captain’s license, a proud achievement that highlighted his deep connection to the water.
But nature wasn’t everything. Preston was happiest with family and friends.
He cherished the annual Thiel family vacation in Wisconsin, adored time with his nieces and nephews, and never missed a chance to banter with buddies.
He loved OSU games, cheering for the Detroit Lions, playing Dota, and diving into sci-fi and fantasy books. Preston had a gift for making people feel special.
He could walk into any room and light it up. He showed up early to help, stayed late to laugh, and made friends everywhere from Ohio to Wisconsin, Idaho, Montana, and New York.
News of Fischer’s Death Spread Quickly, and Tributes Poured in from those who knew him Best
His brother Jake (often called Jack in posts) shared a heartfelt message on Facebook:
Others echoed these sentiments. Ed Alzapiedi wrote:
“He was a great guy and his love for his family was incredible. On my next musky trip I will raise a glass to him. God bless all of you and I will pray for you and your family.”
Via Facebook
Kelsey Jacoby shared:
“I can’t believe he’s gone. This is a tragic loss for me and my family. We loved Preston! He was literally just messaging me that he moved back to Toledo and wanted to hangout! RIP P!”
Via Facebook
Heidemarie Johnson added,
“I got to know Preston up here in Dairyland Wisconsin. I am so sorry for your loss He was a great guy super friendly and he sure loved the outdoors. I am heartbroken for his family and will keep you in our prayers and thoughts.”
Via Facebook
These words describe a man who made a significant impact on the lives of others.
Preston is survived by his loving parents, Chad and Kristy; his brothers, Jake and Anthony; his grandparents; and many other family members and friends who will cherish his memory.
The Fischer family will receive visitors on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Walker Funeral Home, 5155 West Sylvania Avenue, Toledo, OH 43623.
A celebration of life service will be held on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the Five Lakes Church Life Center, located at 4765 North McCord Rd., Sylvania, OH 43560.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Lake and Trails Camp, a place that likely held special meaning in Preston’s life of outdoor adventure.
Preston lived fully, loved deeply, and left a legacy of joy that will endure.
Rest in peace, PFish.
