Janice Ilene Fisher

Janice Ilene Fisher, of Waterloo, passed away on Sunday, December 7, 2025, at the age of 80. She was a beloved daughter, wife, mother, and grandmother, whose life was defined by dedication to her family and community.

Born on May 20, 1945, in Mason City, Iowa, Janice was the daughter of Charles and Merle (Jensen) Otto. After completing her education at Mason City High School, she moved to Waterloo, where she began to forge her own path and worked in various jobs. It was in 1974 that she met Paul Fisher, the love of her life. Their whirlwind romance culminated in marriage just a few months later, on November 12, 1974, at Zion Lutheran Church in Waterloo. Together, they welcomed their daughter, Tammy, in December of 1976. Janice cherished her role as a homemaker and poured her heart into creating a nurturing environment for her family.

After losing Paul in 2019, Janice faced profound grief. The bond they shared was unbreakable, and she carried a piece of him with her every day. Despite her loss, Janice remained true to herself, known for her straightforwardness and strong personality. She found comfort in her simple pleasures, often watching television or corresponding with her pen pals, many of whom shared her love for collecting postcards.

Janice was a proud and active member of Zion Lutheran Church, where her faith was an important cornerstone of her life. She served her community with quiet strength, and her presence will be missed by many.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Paul; her parents, Charles and Merle; and two sons-in-law, Larry Byvank and Paul Foster, who all held special places in her heart.

Janice is survived by her daughter, Tammy Byvank, of Waterloo; her two beloved grandchildren, David and Clementine Byvank, also of Waterloo; and many nieces and nephews, all of whom she cherished deeply.

A visitation will take place on Friday, December 12, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 PM, both at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in Waterloo, Iowa. Burial will occur later in the spring, allowing family and friends to honor her memory in a meaningful way.