Capespan North America BB #:134340 marks with sadness the passing of its founder, Art Fisher, at the age of 93.
Mark Greenberg, president, said, “Art – or ‘Archie’, as many in the industry knew him – began his business career working in his father’s wholesale business in Montreal’s Marché Bonsecours. From those humble beginnings Art built Fisher Bros. Sales Inc. and FBI Foods Ltd. into a successful fresh produce enterprise that introduced South African citrus and deciduous fruit to North America. He later expanded the business to include products from Chile, Peru, Argentina, Brazil, Spain and Morocco. In 2003 Art sold his business to Capespan South Africa which operated it as Fisher Capespan until its name was changed to Capespan North America. Art was a true pioneer and builder of the industry.”
Paperman and Sons funeral home released the following obituary:
Arthur Fisher 1928-2022
Peacefully at home on Thursday, January 20, 2022, at the age of ninety-three. Predeceased by his beloved wife, Myra Fisher and his eldest daughter, Linda Fisher.
Adored father and father in-law of Joanne and Murray Frankel, Shelley Fisher, Marie Lynne Desrochers and Francois Labrie. Cherished grandfather of Laura and Julia Schaefer, Rebecca Dadouche; Dana Frankel, Lanni Frankel and David Leroux Petersen; David and Michael Greenberg; Gillian and Florence Labrie. Proud great-grandfather of Alexis and Emma Petersen.
Predeceased by his parents, David and Zelda Fisher, his in-laws, Lilly and Jake Emmer, his siblings and their spouses, Hy Fisher and Helen Fisher, Annie and Sam Wise, and by his sisters-in-laws, Gertrude and Dr. Fred Wiener, Toby and Sid Flanders. Art had a long, healthy, and blessed life. As he liked to always say, quoting Frank Sinatra, “I did it my way”.
Art prided himself on his self-belief and entrepreneurial spirit. He was a visionary from an early age, helping his father sell fruit at Bonsecours market and eventually scaling the business into an international produce and beverage enterprise (FBI Foods and FBI Brands). Most notably, he introduced the Granny Smith apple to North American consumers. Art translated his passion for business into his philanthropic efforts as well, especially his work with Israel Bonds.
Most importantly, Art was a beloved father and grandfather, having unique relationships with all of his children and grandchildren. He made time for everyone throughout different stages of their lives, cultivating special relationships with care.
The family is privileged to acknowledge his wonderful caregivers, Lily and Victoria.
We are grateful for their compassion and love that they shared at all times. We would also like to thank the incredible CLSC Palliative team. A private funeral service will be held. Shiva private. Contributions may be made in Art’s memory to Federation CJA, (514) 345-2600.
