Thornton Roberts “Bob” Fisher ’58

Thornton Roberts Fisher passed away peacefully at his home on June 3, 2024. Born to Margaret Trussler Fisher and Vardis Alvero Fisher in Santa Monica, California, Bob’s parents were a significant influence in his life. Both were accomplished academics, each holding a PhD. His mother taught English at the college level, and his father was a writer and author known for historical novels of the American West.

Bob’s academic journey began at Wesleyan University in Connecticut, where he completed his undergraduate degree. He later earned a PhD in nuclear physics at the California Institute of Technology, studying under Nobel Prize–winner Richard Feynman. Bob made notable contributions to experimental fusion technology during his career at Lockheed. He was also selected to train as a payload specialist in the NASA astronaut corps, an opportunity tragically lost with the space shuttle Challenger disaster.

Beyond his professional career, Bob had a zest for life and adventure. He enjoyed hiking, skiing, racquetball, photography, playing bridge with friends, and traveling the world. Bob and his wife particularly loved the island of Maui, where they vacationed every year. While studying and working at Stanford, Bob met his future wife, Yvonne, in the Stanford physics library, where she worked as a librarian. They were introduced through her four children, who became his ready-made family. Bob cherished spending time with them, taking the kids skiing and fishing, and embracing his role as “dad” to the whole crew. He was later known for fishing the world for elusive rainbow and brown trout. At their vacation home in South Lake Tahoe, Bob and Yvonne could often be found fishing at nearby lakes, aiming to catch trout for their Tahoe dinners. Their approach was catch and eat, not catch and release.

Despite his many accomplishments, Bob remained a kind, humble, and caring man. He was a loving and devoted husband to his wife, Yvonne, of 52 years and a proud father to their four children: Robert MacLean; Richard MacLean (daughter Sarah); Brian MacLean (daughters Katie and Kelly); and Katherine MacLean Davenport Craig (children Jeff [deceased], Brian, and Alex). He is also survived by his niece, Sharon Sherbert, and her children, Sean and Staci.

Bob’s life was a testament to intellectual curiosity, adventurous spirit, and deep love for family. He will be greatly missed by his family and many friends.