Sioux Falls – Mildred Ann Fischer, 89, went to her heavenly home Monday, January 19, 2026 at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls.  Funeral service will be held Monday, January 26, at 11:00 am, with a visitation starting at 10:00 am, at Parkston Congregational Church. 

Millie was born on July 23, 1936, in Alexandria, South Dakota, to Willard Hanson and Myrtle (Foster) Hanson. On February 17, 1957, she was united in marriage to Raymond Fischer in Alexandria, SD. Together, they built a life rooted in love and hard work, raising their family on the farm southwest of Parkston. Millie dedicated many years of service working at the nursing home in Parkston, first in the laundry department and later in dietary. She was a devoted member of Parkston Congregational Church, where she faithfully taught Sunday school. When she was unable to attend in person, she made sure to watch church services on television, keeping her faith close to her heart. Millie had a deep appreciation for life and people. She loved traveling and participated in 22 bus tours, along with several cherished trips to the Black Hills. A true social butterfly, Millie thrived on connection. She loved playing card games, especially Nickels, cooking, playing bingo, watching old western shows, especially Gunsmoke, reading, and sewing and embroidery. She lovingly made many embroidered dishtowels and donated them to the Mitchell Christian School Auction. Family meant everything to Millie. She went above and beyond for those she loved, treasured family gatherings, and truly enjoyed listening to her family’s stories. Her grandchildren were especially important to her.  Known for her gift of conversation, Millie was a wonderful communicator, a natural talker, and someone who stayed closely connected with her wide network of friends. She was often found chatting away on the phone. Millie will be remembered for her warmth, kindness, faith, and her genuine love for people. Her presence brought comfort, conversation, and joy. 

Grateful for having shared her life are her 3 children: Tamara (Dan) Brunken of Springfield, SD; Jon (Dawn) Fischer of Mitchell, SD; and Joel (Gloria) Fischer of Mitchell; 4 grandchildren: Cassie (Cameron) Lawrence, Christy (Micah) Pengitore, Cassie Goettsch, and Isaac Fischer; 4 great-grandchildren: Payton Lawrence, Harvey Pengitore, Remi Pengitore, and River Starch; 3 sisters-in-law: Marie Hanson, Gloria Hanson, and Berniece Bialas; 2 brothers-in-law, Louis (Mary) Fischer and Fred Stahl; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Raymond; 5 brothers; a sister; mother-in-law, Johanna Fischer; father-in-law, Christian Fischer; 9 sisters-in-law; 11 brothers-in-law; and several nieces and nephews.