Howard Fischbach Obituary

Howard "Woody" Fischbach, born March 3, 1945, passed away on December 8, 2025, leaving behind a life defined by devotion-to his family, his work, his faith, and the many people whose lives he touched. He is survived by his wife, Jackie Moore; his stepdaughter, Hayley Moore; his son, Michael Fischbach, and Michael's wife, Mari.

Woody grew up in Huntington, West Virginia, where his lifelong work ethic took root early, delivering newspapers at age twelve. He went on to serve honorably in the military as a medic, a role that shaped his steady, compassionate nature. After his service, he used the GI Bill to earn a degree in chemistry from Marshall University, with a minor in theology that reflected his enduring love of learning and his deep faith.

Woody began his career as a bench chemist at Aldrich in Milwaukee, where he and his first wife, Carol Jean Fischbach, made their home in New Berlin, Wisconsin. In 1984, they adopted two sons from the Philippines, Michael and Mervin, and proudly naturalized them as U.S. citizens in 1986. The family later moved south in the late 1980s, where Woody transitioned into chemical sales in Columbia, South Carolina, and eventually became a hands-on force in helping build a new chemical company in Blythewood. South Carolina became home-rich soil in which he and his sons put down lasting roots.

When Carol was diagnosed with bile duct cancer in 2016, Woody was her unwavering support. He stayed by her side with quiet strength until her passing in 2018.

In 2020, life brought Woody a new chapter with Jackie Hertig Moore. Together they embraced adventure-camping, cruising, traveling, exploring farms, and creating a home filled with warmth, laughter, and new memories.

Woody's workshop was another testament to who he was: patient, skilled, and endlessly creative. He crafted furniture, bowls, pens, and countless pieces that now stand as tangible reminders of his hands and heart. His lifelong bond with friends-especially his pal Rick, affectionately known as "Judge"-was another cornerstone of his richly lived life.

Vibrant and engaged until the end, Woody leaves behind his wife, his sons, his stepdaughter, dear friends, and a legacy of steadiness, craftsmanship, love for God, and a spirit that never stopped moving forward. He will be remembered for his kindness, his integrity, his humor, and the quiet, dependable way he loved the people around him.

A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at 4:00 pm at St. David's Episcopal Church 605 Polo Road Columbia, SC 29223.