Steven Ray Fisher, known to many as “Big Fish,” passed away on Monday, June 29, 2026, at his home in Owensville, surrounded by the place and the life he had built with steady hands, quiet strength, and a deep devotion to the people around him.
He was born on Nov. 28, 1956, to the late to Oral and Lillian (Aytes) Fisher in Washington.
He grew up and attended school in Gerald and Owensville, and he graduated from Owensville High School in 1976.
Steven was united in marriage to the love of his life, Nancy Litteken on June 3, 1978, and together they built a life centered on faith, family and community. To this union were born two children, Steven J. and Kayla, who were a source of great pride and joy to him. Early in their marriage, Steven and Nancy settled in Gerald, and later they moved to their home in Owensville, where they created a warm and welcoming place filled with love, laughter, and the memories of a life shared well.
Throughout his life Steven carried with him the values of hard work, service, and loyalty that became the foundation of his character.
From an early age, he was known as someone who was dependable, capable, and willing to help wherever he was needed. Those qualities would remain with him throughout his life and would shape the many roles he filled in his family, his work, and his community.
Steven began his working life at the Gerald Feed Store before going to work for Bull Moose Tube Co., where he remained for nearly 39 years. During that time, he was known for his ability to do many different jobs and responsibilities well, and he earned the respect of those who worked alongside him. Steven’s strong work ethic and practical mind made him someone others could count on, whether the task was large or small. His illness forced an early retirement in 2013, but the years of dedication he gave to his work left a lasting impression on his coworkers and friends.
Steven was a devoted family man who took great pride in being present for his children and active in their lives. While his kids were younger, he was an involved dad for both kids, always making time to support them and encourage their growth. He was the kind of father who showed up, stayed involved, and led by example. Steven’s family knew him as a steady presence, a man whose love was shown not only in words, but in the many ways he cared for them each day.
He was also deeply committed to his community and to civil service. His first love in service was the fire department, where he faithfully served in the roles of Fire Chief and Assistant Fire Chief.
Steven was very active as president of the Bi-County Meetings for Franklin and Gasconade counties held for mutual aid, and he gave his time and energy to helping ensure that others could count on support in times of need.
At one time, he was a certified EMT with the Gerald Area Ambulance District, and he also served on the Gerald/Rosebud Rescue Squad and the Franklin County Bomb and Arson Squad. His service reflected the kind of man he was, one who did not seek attention, but who quietly stepped forward when others needed help.
Steven loved the outdoors and found joy in fishing, hunting, and spending time on the land he called home. He and Nancy enjoyed riding ATVs at Cloud 9 Ranch, making memories in the simple and meaningful moments of everyday life.
He was a “MacGyver” style guy who could always find a way to fix things, and there was little he could not repair, improvise, or improve with his hands and his ingenuity.Steven was a quiet man with a goofy sense of humor, and when he did speak up, he had meaningful things to say. Those who knew him well appreciated his wit, his wisdom, and the sincerity behind his words.
Steven was preceded in death by parents, Oral and Lillian Fisher; son, Steven J. “Little Fish” Fisher; and brothers, Richard “Dick” Fisher and Mark Fisher.
He is survived by loving wife, Nancy; beloved daughter, Kayla Fisher and friend Nick Shafferkoetter of Rosebud; siblings, Diane Angell and Daniel “Boone” Fisher, both of Gerald and Pamela Bloch (Hoss) of Herman; brother-in-law, Glenn Litteken and wife Theresa of Bourbon; and numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, great-great nieces and nephews, cousins; and other relatives.
A funeral service held on Saturday, July 11 at the Boeuff Presbyterian Church of Gerald, with Pastor Ron Koppelmann officiating. Cremation has taken place.
Memorial contributions may be made in care of Nancy and Kayla Fisher.
Friends may send their online condolences to Steven’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com
All arrangements entrusted to Eaton Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Sullivan.
(This obit is being rerun at the request of the family due to an error in the original obit.)
