René Joseph Fischer, 88 of Bethlehem, PA passed away peacefully, Tuesday, August 11, 2026 at The Birches of Lehigh Valley. Born February 14, 1938, in East Mauch Chunk, PA, he was the son of the late Eleanor (nee Herman) and René A. Fischer.
René was a co-owner of the Reimer and Fischer Engineering Company. He was a well-established and recognized professional in the materials handling field. His experience in innovative plant layout and systems design concepts is highly regarded throughout the cement industry. This expertise was acquired over a thirty-year period, during which time René directed many bulk materials handling projects throughout the United States.
He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Mary Ann (nee Sidoti) Fischer; children: Michael Fischer of Bath, PA, Robert Fischer (wife Audrey) of Midlothian, VA, David Fischer (wife Carol Ann) of Panama City, FL and Anne Catherine Cosenza of Bethlehem, PA; a sister: Eleanor Piccin of Whitehall, PA; 4 grandchildren: Blaise (wife Maddie), Melanie (husband Tim), Paul (wife Chrisy) and Nicole; and 6 great-grandchildren: Kurt, Marla, Mira, Clark, Khai and Myles.
A viewing will be held from 9:30 to 10:30 AM Tuesday, August 18, 2026, in the Ashton Funeral Home, 1337 Northampton St., Easton, PA with a service to follow at 10:30 AM. Interment is in St. Anthony’s Cemetery, Easton.
If one chooses, contributions in René’s memory may be made to a charity of one’s choice. Offer online condolences at www.AshtonFuneralHome.com.
Joanne McTague
August 15, 2026 at 8:22 am
Mary Ann and family,
Please know that you are and will continue to be
In our prayers for comfort and peace on the passing of Rene’. We understand.
With Love,
Joanne and Charlie
John Zarbatany
August 17, 2026 at 9:54 am
Dear Mary Ann & Family — So sorry to hear of Rene’s passing . You and your family are in my prayers and thoughts. Cherish all the wonderful memories !!
Kelly J Sullivan
August 18, 2026 at 10:07 am
Mary Ann,
Please accept my condolences on Rene’s passing. I think of you everyday. What I recall the most was Renes extraordinarily beautiful smile and how he lit up every time he saw you. It lifted my heart and made me smile as well. Although we did not share a lot of time together, being able to help you in such a small way was a joy to see the two of you together. God bless, Kelly Sullivan